Reused Chapels In The Third Pylon At Karnak Temples By Amenhotep III

Mohamed, Ahmed Rabie; Abdelhafeez, Haitham Taher; Zein, Mohamed

Reused Chapels In The Third Pylon At Karnak Temples By Amenhotep III

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Researcher, Faculty Of Tourism and Hotels, Luxor University, Egypt

² The Higher Institute Of Tourism and Hotels, (EGOTH), Luxor, Egypt

³ Faculty Of Tourism and Hotels, Luxor University, Egypt

Abstract

The ancient Egyptians, despite their deep respect for their rich history, readily dismantled predecessors' constructions for personal interests. Reusing building materials, driven by ideological and economic factors, was common throughout Egyptian history. This study utilizes a descriptive and analytical methodology to explore the dynamic interplay between past and present in ancient Egypt's architectural landscape. Temples were frequently repurposed, reusing sacred sites, materials or entire buildings with modifications. Amenhotep III dismantled Karnak's monuments, including Thutmoses II and IV's festival hall, to construct the third pylon. This incorporated materials from various structures spanning the 12th to 18th Dynasty, revealing a complex history of construction and reuse. Amenhotep III's motivation was to honor god Amon, seeking divine favor for religious satisfaction and contributing to both the king's glorification and the temple's spiritual significance.

Keywords