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6 Ancient African Architectural Marvels Built Before Greece or Rome Existed

By | Published on June 27, 2014 | Updated on January 31, 2017 12:19 PM EST
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The Temple Complex of KarnakThe Temple Complex of Karnak

The temple complex of Karnak  is one of the most impressive sites in all of Egypt and it’s the largest religious compound ever built by man. Karnak is actually the site’s modern name. Its ancient name was Ipet-isut, meaning “The Most Select (or Sacred) of Places.”

Construction work began in 16th century B.C. and continued past the era of Pharaoh Ramses II, from approximately 1391-1351. The complex consists of four main parts, the Precinct of Amon-Re, the Precinct of Montu, the Precinct of Mut and the Temple of Amenhotep IV (dismantled).

There are also a few smaller temples and sanctuaries located outside the enclosing walls of the four main parts, and several avenues of ram-headed sphinxes connecting the Precinct of Mut, the Precinct of Amon-Re, and Luxor Temple.

These magnificent structures represent the combined achievement of many generations of builders in ancient Africa. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to the structures, enabling it to reach a size, complexity and diversity not seen elsewhere.

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