In many of the cities to which we've traveled, there have been several unexpected sights. Right in the heart of Madrid, not more than a 1/4 mile past the Royal Palace, in the Pargue de la Montana, is an authentic Egyptian Temple - the Temple of Debod. Who would have imagined? With the prospect of several Egyptian monuments and archeological sites being destroyed by the building of the Aswan Dam, Egypt and UNESCO asked for international help in saving them. As a thank you to Spain for its help in this project, Egypt gave the Temple of Debod as a gift. Originally built in the second century B.C. to the god Awon, and later enlarged for the god Isis, this temple was dismantled stone-by-stone and then rebuilt in Madrid. The view from the gardens surrounding the temple are fantastic! Finding these hidden gems really makes our adventures wonderful.
Google "The Temple of Debod" for further information.
Google "The Temple of Debod" for further information.
The Temple of Debod in the Pargue de la Montana. Historical documents indicate that the two stand alone archways were actually in reversed positions.
Looking at the Temple proper, through the trees of the gardens...
...and through the archways.
A tray of bread is offered to the god Awon in these carvings.
Some of the carved artifacts from the Temple.
We would love to be able to read these hieroglyphics.
Looking towards the Royal Palace from the gardens around the Temple.
Dancing in the park (sounds like a song title)! Many folks enjoy a sunny afternoon in the park surrounding the Temple for various activities...
...including practicing martial arts.
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