Qasr Ibrim
Egypt

Qasr Ibrim

Island city with preserved archaeological remains

Location

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Historical Context

About

Qasr Ibrim is an archaeological site in Lower Nubia, Egypt, notable for its long history of continuous occupation from the 8th century BCE to the early 19th century CE. The city was strategically perched on a cliff above the Nile and later became an island due to the flooding from the Aswan High Dam. It served as an economic, political, and religious hub, featuring fortifications, temples, churches, and mosques. Qasr Ibrim is particularly significant for its well-preserved organic and textual remains, including documents in nine languages, which provide insights into its role as a frontier society and trade center. It was a major Christian center before converting to Islam under Ottoman influence.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Egyptian Invasion

2000 BCE

Roman Fortification

circa 25 BCE

Makurian Christian Center

circa 700 CE

Christianization of Temples

circa 700 CE

Ottoman Occupation

circa 1500 CE

Reign of Amenhotep I

circa 1525-1504 BCE

Final Evacuation

1813 CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Defensive Structures

Fortresses
category

Water Management Features

Dams
category

Public and Civic Structures

Administrative Buildings
category

Burial and Funerary Structures

TombsCryptsCemeteries
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Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesChurchesMosquesStelae
category

Agricultural and Land Use Features

Field Systems
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Cities
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Plan Your Visit

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Reference

Details

Country

Egypt

Coordinates

22.65° N, 31.99° E