Pylon (architecture)

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Pylon is the Greek term for a monumental gate or door built in front of an Egyptian temple. It consists of two towers and the entrance between them, which is generally about half the height of the towers. Contemporary paintings of pylons show them with long poles flying banners.

In ancient Egyptian temples, the Pylon is the gateway to the inner part. Pylons are often embellished with pictures. On the first Pylon of the temple of Isis at Philae, the pharaoh is shown slaying his enemies while Isis, Horus and Hathor look on.

Other examples of Pylons can be seen in Luxor and Edfu. In Luxor before the Pylons stands only one obelisk. The obelisk on the right side stands at the place de la concorde in Paris.

[edit] See also

• Obelisk

[edit] External links

• Second Pylon Karnak
• Luxor Pylon

[edit] Pictures

Temple of Luxor

Temple of Isis first Pylon, Philae

Temple of Isis second Pylon, Philae

Temple of Edfu