As part of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ commitment to upgrading archaeological sites across Egypt and enhancing the visitor experience, the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) has launched an extensive restoration and development project targeting the Luxor and Karnak temples on the East Bank, and the Hatshepsut and Seti I temples on the West Bank.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, emphasized that the works are being executed according to a strict timeline. The objective is to complete the primary phases before the start of the winter peak season, ensuring that tourists can enjoy integrated services and seamless access to these historic landmarks.
Scientific Restoration and Digital Security
Dr. Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the SCA,stated that restoration is being carried out by a specialized team from the Council’s Projects Sector. The team is utilizing the latest scientific methods to preserve the architectural and historical integrity of the sites.
Recent upgrades at Karnak Temples include:
*Electronic Surveillance: Modernization of the main control building for the digital monitoring system.
*Security Expansion:
A comprehensive study is underway for the second phase, which will extend camera coverage to all surrounding perimeter walls.
Expanding Capacity at Luxor Temple
To manage visitor flow and reduce congestion, the Luxor Temple development project focuses on infrastructure:
Entry Hall Expansion: Increasing the entrance hall area from 110 to 250 square meters.
New Gates:
Adding six additional entry gates.
*Advanced Screening: Increasing the number of X-Ray scanners and electronic ticketing machines.
Mr. Moamen Othman, Head of the Restoration and Projects Sector, noted that major construction will take place during the summer months (May to August) to take advantage of lower visitor numbers. During this period, the current exit will serve as a temporary dual-entry point. Improvements also include expanding shaded waiting areas and redesigning the entrance façade to align with the site's archaeological character.
Modernizing the West Bank Experience
Development at the Temple of Hatshepsutaims to provide a more informative and efficient visit:
Visitor Center: Upgrading the facility with two X-Ray scanners and four sterilized entry gates.
Digital Ticketing:A dedicated area featuring 11 electronic ticket gates.
Multimedia Hall:
A new exhibition hall equipped with interactive screens and seating to showcase the history of the temple.
Infrastructure:Updated fire alarms, sound systems, and new shaded canopies.
Mr. Mohamed Abdel-Badie, Head of the Central Administration of Upper Egypt Antiquities,added that the site's general services will also see a complete overhaul, including the renovation of bazaars, new flooring for the main entrance, and the restoration of wooden coverings along the entry path.
Preserving the Colors of Seti I
At the Temple of Seti I, restoration efforts are focused on aesthetic and structural preservation:
Cleaning: Removal of soot, dust, and bird droppings to reveal the original vibrant colors of the ancient inscriptions.
Structural Support: Reinforcing weak sections of the temple’s exterior walls and clearing intrusive vegetation.
Accessibility: Installing new sandstone visitor paths and updated educational signage detailing the temple's history.
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