Heritage & monuments
Trajan's Kiosk
Trajan's Kiosk
Trajan's Kiosk is a roofless temple located on Agilkia Island. Originally designed as the gateway to the Temple of Philae, the structure is noted for its unfinished columns and Roman-era architecture. Visitors go here to see the transition between Egyptian and Roman building styles and to view the ruins as part of the larger island complex.
Getting There
To reach the site from Aswan city centre, you must take a motorboat to Agilkia Island. The journey typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes depending on the boat operator and the docking point.
Time Allocation
Because the structure is a small, open-air kiosk rather than a large temple complex, allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes to walk around the site and observe the columns.
When to Visit
The site is outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, so early morning or late afternoon is preferable to avoid peak heat. The area can get crowded when large cruise ship groups arrive at the island. Visiting during the winter months is generally more comfortable due to milder temperatures.
Nearby Attractions
Since the kiosk is located on Agilkia Island, it is easily combined with other nearby sites:
- Temple of Isis in Philae: 0.1km
- Bigeh: 0.5km
- Philae: 0.6km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors