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Temple of Amon, Hypostyle Hall. Karnak, Egypt
Unidentified Photographer
Photograph date: ca. 1865-ca. 1889
Building date: ca. 1292 BC-ca. 1213 BC (19th Dynasty)
Notes: “The most striking feature of the temple at Karnak is the hypostyle hall, commissioned by Ramses I (reigned 1292-90), that occupies the space between the 3rd and 2nd pylons. The area of this vast hall, one of the wonders of antiquity, is about 54,000 square feet (5,000 square metres). It was decorated by Seti I (reigned 1290-79) and Ramses II (reigned 1279-13), to whom much of the construction must be due. Twelve enormous columns, nearly 80 feet (24 metres) high, supported the roofing slabs of the central nave above the level of the rest so that light and air could enter through a clerestory. Seven lateral aisles on either side brought the number of pillars to 134. Historical reliefs on the outer walls show the victories of Seti in Palestine and Ramses II defeating the Hittites at the Battle of Kadesh.”
(Source: Encyclopedia Britannica)
Credit Line: Gift of Andrew Dickson White