Gevel van de tempel van Ramses III te Medinet Habou c. 1875 - 1900

This black and white photograph depicts the facade of the temple of Ramses III at Medinet Habou. While the photographer is unknown, this image allows us to contemplate the lasting impact of ancient Egypt, and the West’s historical fascination with it. Consider how power dynamics shape our understanding of history. Monuments like this temple were built to legitimize the rule of pharaohs like Ramses III, but were also places of worship for the local population. The temple was a stage for sacred rituals, reinforcing the social hierarchy of the time. The photograph captures not only the grand scale of the architecture, but also hints at the human stories embedded within its walls. The crumbling stones and weathered surfaces bear witness to centuries of change. This photograph connects us to a civilization whose legacy continues to inspire wonder and reflection. It asks us to think about the power that architecture possesses, how it communicates cultural values, and how those values endure.