Global Treasures: Kom Omba

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1127

UPC: 879061007262

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Today, the Egyptian city of Kom Ombo has approximately 70,000 inhabitants. Its outstanding double temple has made it famous throughout the world.

The mummified remains of ancient Nile crocodiles are displayed within a chapel that was once dedicated to the goddess Hathor. These great reptiles were worshipped as sacred animals. One half of the double temple belonged to the crocodile-headed deity Sobek, the son of Hathor.

Kom Ombo Temple was divided into two asymmetric parts by its Ptolemaic builders. Within the right section of the building, Sobek was worshipped, while the left half was dedicated to Haroeris, "The Falcon God."

The external surrounding wall of the temple contains several strange pictures and reliefs including portrayals of early medical instruments. A kind of medicine cupboard was carved into the stone. It shows highly-developed medical implements, among them a variety of surgical instruments and even forceps. The profession of doctor was popular and widespread throughout ancient Egypt. However, the gods were also called upon as soon as there was illness, as it was believed that medicine alone could not provide a cure.

Images of numerous Egyptian rulers adorn the walls. Queen Cleopatra, the legendary last Ptolemaic sovereign, was also immortalized here. Outside the temple there is a "Birth House" next to the small Hathor Chapel. The Mammisi contains the remarkable portrayal of a nursing mother. During the Ptolemaic period, each temple contained a Mammisi that was decorated with portrayals and hieroglyphs. Here, the birth of the children of the gods was celebrated.

Due to the ancient relics and the double temple of Kom Ombo, we have been able to gain an even greater understanding of Egypt's fascinating past.