Templo de Debod

The Templo de Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple near Plaza de España, Madrid. It dates from the 4th century BC and was brought to Madrid in 1971.

The Templo de Debod once stood in the Nile Valley of Egypt, 31km (19 miles) from Aswan. Built in the 4th century BC, it was dedicated to the god Amun and the goddess Isis.

When the new Aswan Dam threatened the temple, the Egyptian government decided to give it to Spain in gratitude for its help in saving Abu Simbel. The temple was carefully dismantled in 1969-70, then put on a ship to Valencia followed by a train to Madrid. There it was reconstructed and opened to the public in 1971.

Two tall, narrow gateways lead to the temple itself, which has a colonnaded porch. The west hall of the temple contains hieroglyphics. Photos inside document the long history of the temple, including the reconstruction project in Madrid.

The Templo de Debod is situated next to a large pool in a park with fine views of Almudena Cathedral and the city of Madrid. It is beautifully illuminated at night, with its image reflected in the water. The park surrounding the temple is one of the best places in Madrid to watch (and photograph) the sunset.