The Nile river as we know it, is the main artery for Nubia and Egypt. The present course of the river is traceable to at least 25,000 years ago and is the determining factor of the topography of the region. Basically a rainless area for the majority of the year, it is encountered by annual flooding which makes this a more viable and habitable place to live. Tributaries of the Nile swell when late summer rains cause floods from the Ethiopia plateau region. This is all pertinent information for the following reason; to gain control of the Nile River and it’s flooding tendencies – construction of the first Aswan Dam began in 1899.
Aswan was marked as the gateway to Egypt from the south, standing as the chief outpost of the pharaohs. Also obviously, this is the place where the arrival of the annual Nile River flood was signaled. More significantly, the area provided granite for many ancient monuments throughout Egypt from it’s quarries.
Aswan has two main archeological surveys, the first being an extensive one taking place from 1907-1911 by gentlemen named Maclver and Woolley from the University of Pennsylvania. Specifically this site, of Karanog, included an extensive village, cemetery, and governor’s palace of the Meroitic people. By studying the artifacts found, this expedition was able to contribute detailed information about the culture these people lived so many years ago.
The second archeological task of more significance is that of the Temple of Isis. This was a temple built in the Ptolemaic period (332-330 BC). At the time it was known as a sanctity of the popular Isis cult and a strong contender to early Christianity. Isis was the goddess of motherhood and sexuality. The temple itself was found on the island of Philae in the river near Aswan. But due to the inundated waters caused by the Aswan Dam, the island of Philae is no more. For this reason, an international team of archeologist, (UNESCO), transported. The Temple of Isis and all other monuments to nearby Aglika island only 500 feet away. Most of the original structures have been reconstructed, and to this day remain a popular tourist attraction for Egypt and the Aswan area. There is even a sound and light show that tours you through the ruins.
