Right at the heart of Egypt, situated 60 miles north of Luxor and to the south of Abydos, lies the Dendera temple complex – an important religious site in antiquity.
The construction of the main structure of the complex, the Temple of Hathor, was commissioned by the pharaoh Ptolemy XII. His daughter Cleopatra VII, the last pharaoh of Egypt, continued the construction work after his death. Commemorating her dedicated support, a relief showing Cleopatra and her son Caesarion graces the outer southern wall of the temple, serving as an enduring testament to her patronage.
The temple is perhaps best known for the Dendera Zodiac, an intricately carved circular bas-relief depicting celestial constellations, including those of the zodiac, which is now on display in the Musée du Louvre.
