Temple of Esna, Egypt
Interior of the Hypostyle Hall at the Temple of Khnum, Esna. Photo: Wolfgang Kaehler
Hypostyle hall, in architecture, interior space whose roof rests on pillars or columns. The word means literally “under pillars,” and the design allows for the construction of large spaces—as in temples, palaces, or public buildings—without the need for arches. This particular temple was built of red sandstone, and its portico consisted of six rows of four columns each, with lotus-leaf capitals, all of which however differ from each other. The temple contains very late hieroglyphic inscription, dating from the reign of Decius (249–251 AD).
3 comments:
I wonder how long it took to hand-carve each of these magnificent columns? Amazing!
Pam -- We can only wonder. Each column is unique and no two are carved alike. Each one is a stonecutter's masterpiece. I agree, they are amazing.
xo, Rosemary
It leaves one awestruck that they had the ability to engineer and build such structures . I assume that many lost their lives as they labored or more than likely were forced to labor to construct such long lasting structures. Ancient Egypt is so fascinating.
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