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Templo de Debod

Egyptian Temple Rebuilt In The Heart Of Madrid

Templo de DebodConstruction on Templo de Debod began in on the shores of the Nile in Egypt in the second century BC. It stood there for over 2000 years until the construction of a dam forced the temple to be moved. It was dismantled between 1969 and 1970 and moved to Spain where it was rebuilt brick by brick in Madrid. It opened to the public in 1972 and was designated a “Spanish Property of Cultural Interest” in 2008.

Kindra at the temple of debodToday you will find the temple on the top of the hill in Parque de Oeste, near the Palacio Real. After you see what royalty spent their money on in the 18th century, see what they spent it on two millenia before. Because of the hill and the trees, you  really can’t see the temple from the street, but once you climb up you will be amazed. It is surprisingly peaceful up here and the view of the city is expansive. The temple has 2 stone archways surrounded by a reflecting pool in front of it. Inside the temple, the chambers are smaller than you may think (the stone is much thicker than it appears). There is plenty of history about the temple’s trip to Spain as well as its time in Egypt. Come here with your camera ready-it is impossible to take a bad picture. If you are lucky enough to be here at dusk, take in a breathtaking view of the sunset and the temple lit up at night.

Reflecting poolKnow Before You Go

The temple is open Tuesday through Friday from 9:45am to 1:45pm and 6.15-8:15pm from April to September, and Tuesday through Friday 9:45am-1:45pm and 4.15-6:15pm from October to March. It is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:45am to 1:45pm all year.

The temple is located on top of a hill so bring your walking shoes (but since you are on vacation, you should already have them on). If you are there in the winter, try heading over there at dusk.

Bottom Line

Here’s your chance to walk like an Egyptian in Spain.

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