The temple of Khnum at Esna was originally built during the reign of Thutmose III, but most of the surviving structure dates from the Ptolemaic period and later. The temple was converted into an early Christian church, and some of the Coptic art remains. The temple is a short walk from the river through the town of Esna, and in fact seems to be right on the edge of the market. The town grew up over the site in a literal sense, as the street level is roughly in line with the roof of the hypostyle hall. From the street, you can look down on the facade of the temple before descending several staircases to enter.
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