Qertassi: A Small Pavilion with Monumental Character
The Kiosk of Qertassi is an unfinished Roman-era pavilion from Lower Nubia, probably created around the early first century. Though only about eight metres square, its open plan, elegant proportions and carved capitals give it a memorable presence.
Four slender floral columns stand inside the surviving structure, while two entrance pillars carry the face of Hathor. The goddess was associated with music, beauty and sacred landscapes, and was also revered by quarry workers in this sandstone-producing region.
The kiosk was dismantled during the international campaign to save Nubian monuments from the rising waters created by the Aswan High Dam. Rebuilt at New Kalabsha, it now forms part of a remarkable group of rescued sites overlooking Lake Nasser.
Six Authentic Highlights of the Kiosk
Focus on six genuinely distinct features, from Hathor’s face to the monument’s rescue and new setting.
Plan a Better Qertassi Visit
Prepare for the boat journey and make time for the complete New Kalabsha group.
Combine New Kalabsha Sites
Pair Qertassi with Kalabsha Temple and other relocated monuments.
Allow 20–30 Minutes
The kiosk is compact, but its capitals reward a close look.
Prearrange the Boat
Confirm permits, boat price, waiting time and return before departure.
Circle the Structure
Walk around the kiosk to compare every column and screen wall.
Water & Sun Cover
The boat and open archaeological area can be intensely exposed.
Use Side Light
Angled light makes the Hathor faces and floral capitals easier to read.
Ask About Steps
Boat boarding and uneven stone surfaces may limit mobility.
Reconfirm Access
Permissions and opening arrangements at New Kalabsha can change.
Explore New Kalabsha with a Private Egyptologist
Connect Qertassi’s columns, Hathor imagery and relocation with the wider story of Lower Nubia.
Remarkable Facts About Qertassi
Compact Square Plan
The original pavilion measured roughly 25 feet on each side.
Original Columns
The complete design is understood to have included fourteen columns.
Columns Survive
Four floral columns and two Hathor-headed pillars remain standing.
Present Location
The rescued kiosk now stands above Lake Nasser near Kalabsha Temple.
Make Nubian Heritage Part of Your Private Journey
Nearby Attractions Around Qertassi
Continue through Nubia with four published ETC attraction guides.
Kiosk of Qertassi Visitor Questions
Clear answers for planning a visit to this rescued Nubian pavilion.
What is the Kiosk of Qertassi?
It is a small unfinished Roman-era sandstone pavilion from Lower Nubia, now reconstructed at New Kalabsha near Aswan.
Where is the Kiosk of Qertassi today?
It stands at New Kalabsha above Lake Nasser, close to Kalabsha Temple and other relocated monuments.
When was the kiosk built?
It is generally dated to the Augustan or early Roman period, probably around the early first century.
Why is Qertassi famous?
Its best-known features are two Hathor-headed entrance pillars and four slender columns with floral capitals.
How large is the kiosk?
The original square plan measured approximately 8.3 by 8.3 metres, or about 25 feet on each side.
How many columns did it have?
The complete design is understood to have included fourteen columns; six survive standing in the reconstructed monument.
Was the Kiosk of Qertassi finished?
No. The building remained unfinished and lacks a surviving inscription naming its patron or builder.
Why was the kiosk moved?
It was relocated during the international campaign to save Nubian monuments threatened by the Aswan High Dam and Lake Nasser.
How long should I spend at Qertassi?
Allow around 20 to 30 minutes for the kiosk itself, or longer for the complete New Kalabsha group.
How do visitors reach New Kalabsha?
A boat transfer is normally required. Permits and access arrangements can change, so organize the visit in advance.