Temple of Debod

What to expect

The Temple of Debod is an Egyptian temple built in Nubia, south of Aswan, from the early second century BC, first as a small chapel to Amun and later enlarged under the Ptolemies and Roman emperors for the goddess Isis. When the Aswan High Dam threatened Nubian monuments, Egypt gave the temple to Spain in 1968 in thanks for help saving the temples at Abu Simbel.

It was taken apart and rebuilt in Madrid's Parque del Oeste between 1970 and 1972, with the gateways placed in a different order than the original. You can walk round the outside, step into the small interior rooms and look out over the park. The area is open and breezy, a pleasant spot for a short stop. Most visits last 30 to 45 minutes, and the temple is especially popular around sunset.

Don't miss

• The temple's east-west orientation
• Carved reliefs on the interior walls
• The sanctuary decorated in relief
• Views over Parque del Oeste
• The temple at sunset

Tips for your visit

• Aim for sunset on a clear day, when the stone glows and the park is full of people.
• Come earlier if you want fewer people for photos and a calmer visit.
• Combine it with the Royal Palace and the Plaza de España, both within a short walk.
• Check opening before you go; the interior is small, holds few people at a time and can close temporarily for conservation.