Philae, Kiosk of Trajan

Kiosk of Trajan

Philae, Egypt (map)

This uncompleted temple was built by the emperor Trajan (98-177 AD), who is shown sacrificing to Isis in a relief inside. It currently lacks a roof, but architectural sockets indicate that a timber roof might have existed in ancient times. The building's function has been variously described as a barque shrine or landing-stage for the temple of Isis.