One of the most impressive monuments of ancient Egypt, the Great Hypostyle Hall in the Karnak Temples, is undergoing major restoration led by the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA).
Since July 2021, the hall’s 134 massive columns, which are adorned with inscriptions and scenes, have been cleaned to reveal their ancient splendour.
SCA Secretary General Mostafa Waziry said the last column is being worked on, bringing the work near completion.
“The restoration team consists of SCA experts working with graduates from the Universities of Luxor and South Valley and the Restoration Institute in Luxor,” Waziry said.
“They are using modern techniques and methods to reveal the original colours and details of the hall. The project also involves documenting and studying the hall’s inscriptions, which provide valuable information about the history and religion of ancient Egypt,” Waziry added.
The restoration of the Great Hypostyle Hall is part of the Tourism and Antiquities Ministry’s efforts to enhance the cultural heritage of Egypt, which is a legacy for all of humanity.
The project will also improve the cultural tourism product in Luxor, which offers a unique combination of ancient monuments. The ministry is keen to provide an integrated Egyptian tourist destination that caters to different tourism styles and preferences.
The Karnak Temples were built over 1500 years by ancient Egypts who worshipped Amun, the god of Thebes, and his consort Mut and son Khonsu.
The complex consists of several temples, chapels, pylons, obelisks and statues, as well as a sacred lake and a museum.
The restoration is implemented according to precise scientific studies carried out by the work team to determine the most appropriate methods of restoration that are appropriate to the current state of antiquity and consistent with the scientific foundations approved by international conventions.
