Kiosk of Qertassi
An elegant Roman kiosk on Kalabsha Island, relocated to preserve its beauty and historical significance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Kiosk of Qertassi
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An elegant Roman kiosk on Kalabsha Island, relocated to preserve its beauty and historical significance.
"Due to the beauty of the surroundings and the calm solitude of the place, it is a really pretty sight."
Boat Access Essential
Access is by boat, often combined with Kalabsha Temple. Book a tour for convenience! :ferry:
Combine with Kalabsha
Visit alongside Kalabsha Temple for a fuller historical experience. :temple:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Roman Kiosk Architecture
Kalabsha Island
Admire the elegant Roman kiosk with its four slender papyrus columns and two Hathor columns at the entrance.
Hathor Columns
Entrance
Marvel at the distinctive Hathor columns, a beautiful example of ancient Egyptian architectural influence.
Relocated Monument
Kalabsha Island
Understand the significance of this monument being moved to higher ground after the Aswan High Dam construction.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Qertassi
Getting to the Kiosk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Access Essential
Access is by boat, often combined with Kalabsha Temple. Book a tour for convenience! :ferry:
Combine with Kalabsha
Visit alongside Kalabsha Temple for a fuller historical experience. :temple:
Enjoy the Solitude
This less-visited spot offers peaceful exploration and great photo ops. :camera:
Rudimentary Facilities
Basic washrooms are available, but don't expect luxury. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Access Essential
Access is by boat, often combined with Kalabsha Temple. Book a tour for convenience! :ferry:
Combine with Kalabsha
Visit alongside Kalabsha Temple for a fuller historical experience. :temple:
Enjoy the Solitude
This less-visited spot offers peaceful exploration and great photo ops. :camera:
Rudimentary Facilities
Basic washrooms are available, but don't expect luxury. :toilet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Kiosk of Qertassi to be a peaceful and beautiful site, offering a respite from typical tourist crowds. Its unique Roman architecture and the story of its relocation are highlights, though some note that not much remains standing. The serene surroundings and the opportunity for leisurely exploration are frequently praised.
"This is a small chapel that lies near the kalabsha and Brit Al Wali temples. Far from the usual tourist traffic you can enjoy the beauty of this historic chapel at your leisure.
Not much is left standing, but due to the beauty of the surroundings and the calm solitude of the place, it is a really pretty sight.
We took a motorboat to the island and spent over two hours there. Taking pictures and relaxing as we admired the sheer beauty of the island and marvelled at the carvings and pillars.
There are washrooms on one side of the hill, built on a slightly lower level to the temples. Don't expect anything fancy, but they're rudimentary but very welcome."
Nita B Choudhury
"Beautiful site full of artefacts and paintings"
Jay S Kay
"Awesome
Visit Egypt 🇪🇬"
Ahmed A M Elazazi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kiosk of Qertassi is located on Kalabsha Island and is typically accessed by boat. Most visitors arrive as part of a tour that includes the nearby Kalabsha Temple. Booking a motorboat or a guided tour from Aswan is the most practical way to reach the site. 
Yes, the Kiosk of Qertassi is often visited in conjunction with the Kalabsha Temple and the Beit el-Wali temple, all of which were relocated to Kalabsha Island due to the Aswan High Dam.
While independent visits are possible, it requires arranging boat transportation. Joining a tour that includes the Kiosk and Kalabsha Temple is generally more straightforward and cost-effective.
Motorboats are the primary mode of transport to Kalabsha Island. Many Nile cruise packages or day tours from Aswan will include this boat trip.
Yes, you can arrange boat trips or join organized tours from Aswan that will take you to Kalabsha Island, including the Kiosk of Qertassi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Kiosk of Qertassi is usually included in the ticket for the Kalabsha Temple complex. It's advisable to confirm this when purchasing your tickets or booking a tour.
The Kiosk of Qertassi generally follows the opening hours of the Kalabsha Temple complex. These are typically from early morning until late afternoon.
While specific fees for the Kiosk alone are uncommon, the general entrance fee for the Kalabsha Temple site usually covers access to the Kiosk.
Tickets for the Kalabsha Temple complex, which includes the Kiosk of Qertassi, can usually be purchased at the site. However, booking in advance through a tour operator is recommended for convenience.
Discounts may be available for students or Egyptian nationals. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or with your tour provider about any applicable discounts.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's a small, elegant Roman kiosk dating back to the 1st century AD. It features four slender papyrus columns inside and two Hathor columns at the entrance. It was relocated to protect it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
You can admire the unique Roman architecture, the detailed columns, and the surrounding natural beauty of Kalabsha Island. It's a peaceful spot for photography and reflection.
The Kiosk is relatively well-preserved, especially considering it was relocated. While not as grand as larger temples, its delicate architecture is still impressive.
Since it's often visited with Kalabsha Temple, allocate about 1-2 hours for the entire site. The Kiosk itself can be appreciated in about 30 minutes.
Yes, rudimentary washrooms are available on the island, located on a lower level near the temples.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the kiosk from different angles, focusing on the columns and the entrance. The surrounding landscape of Lake Nasser also offers beautiful backdrops.
Photography is generally allowed at the Kiosk of Qertassi. However, always be respectful of the site and other visitors.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, creating a warm glow on the ancient stones. Early morning can also provide soft light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is often restricted at archaeological sites in Egypt. It's best to check current regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the structure and its surroundings. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that facilities are basic, and the site is exposed to the sun. Bring plenty of water, hats, and sunscreen. It's best to combine this visit with the larger Kalabsha Temple, which might offer more for younger visitors to explore. The peaceful atmosphere allows for a relaxed experience without overwhelming crowds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1The best light is often found during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, casting a warm glow on the ancient stones. The surrounding landscape of Lake Nasser also provides a picturesque backdrop. Remember to check for any restrictions on drone photography if you plan to use one.
🏛️ History Buffs
+1Studying its architectural details, such as the papyrus and Hathor columns, offers insights into the cultural exchange and religious practices of the time. Visiting alongside the Kalabsha Temple provides a broader context of Nubian and Roman history in the region.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Relocation of Qertassi
+1This relocation project, undertaken in the 1960s, was part of a larger UNESCO initiative to save numerous Nubian monuments from being submerged. The Kiosk now stands as a testament to both ancient craftsmanship and modern engineering and preservation techniques. Its new location allows it to be viewed alongside other relocated temples, offering a cohesive glimpse into the region's past.
Visitors can reflect on the journey of this ancient structure, appreciating not only its architectural beauty but also the dedication involved in its rescue and reconstruction. The serene setting on Kalabsha Island provides a peaceful environment to contemplate its history.
Architectural Significance
+2The papyrus columns, a classic motif in Egyptian architecture, are rendered here in a Roman style, showcasing a blend of cultural influences. The Hathor columns, topped with the head of the goddess Hathor, are particularly iconic and add a touch of divine grandeur to the entrance. The kiosk itself was likely dedicated to the goddess Isis and her son Harpocrates, reflecting the syncretism of Roman and Egyptian deities.
+1Although the kiosk is not fully enclosed and lacks a roof, its elegant design and the intricate details of its columns make it a noteworthy monument. It offers a unique perspective on Roman presence and architectural adaptation in ancient Egypt.
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