Page 117 - WDT Magazine Egypt

liefs and art had been purposely defaced, most likely
by zealous Christians attempting to erase any image
or memory of Egyptian gods. Mohamed pointed out
Coptic crosses and Greek inscriptions carved into the
walls when the temple was transformed into a Chris-
tian place of worship during the early Byzantine era.
As we set out to explore on our own, Mohamed
reminded us not to talk to or photography the men
dressed in native garb in the temple or the security
guards. Both will demand payment. One guard fol-
lowed us as we strolled the grounds; we ignored him
until he gave up and moved on.
After walking in the sun for a while, we sought the
shade of a busy restaurant and gift shop loaded with
colorful Nubian crafts including woven hats, baskets
and stone carvings. This was the last major temple
stop and opportunity for souvenir hunting for many
of the Pharaohs, who took advantage of this last
minute shopping stop. We piled back into the ferry,
and then van to return to the St. George for lunch
and a rest before a boat ride to a Nubian village.

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