Selesela Quarries and Chapels Aswan

Selesela Quarries and Chapels Aswan Selesela Quarries and Chapels Aswan Selesela Quarries and Chapels Aswan Gebel el-Silsila is 65 km (40 mi) north of Aswan in Upper Egypt, where the cliffs on both sides close to the narrowest point along the length of the entire Nile. Selesela Quarries and Chapels Aswan The location is between Edfu in the north towards Lower Egypt and Kom Ombo in the south towards Upper Egypt. The name Kheny (or sometimes Khenu) means “The Place of Rowing“. It was used as a major quarry site on both sides of the Nile from at least the 18th Dynasty to Greco-Roman times. Silsila is famous for its New Kingdom stelai and cenotaphs. Selesela Quarries and Chapels Aswan The quarries were used again to extract materials for the building of the Essna lock untill the authorities prohibited such work because of the cracks produced in the Chapel of Horemheb and other 13 chapels. Selesela Quarries and Chapels Aswan Silsila’s New Kingdom stelae and cenotaphs still bear witness to its ancient significance. The area holds carvings, inscriptions, and shrines erected by officials involved in quarrying. Over the centuries, it became the largest sandstone quarry in Egypt, contributing to the construction of major temples. In summary, Jabal Silsila stands as a testament to Egypt’s rich history, and its secrets continue to captivate us, waiting to be further revealed in the future.