Temple of Debod

Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple reconstructed in Madrid’s Parque del Oeste after being donated to Spain in 1968. The structure was dismantled in Egypt and rebuilt in Madrid in the early 1970s to save it from flooding caused by the Aswan High Dam.

The complex includes the main temple blocks and a forecourt reconstructed around a shallow reflecting pool which provides framed views and photographic opportunities. The site functions as an open-air monument and is easily accessible from central Madrid.

Originally from Nubia, the temple dates to the Hellenistic and Roman periods of Egyptian history and was relocated to preserve it. After arrival in Spain the temple was reassembled and opened to the public in the early 1970s.

The temple sits in the western side of central Madrid in Parque del Oeste, near the Plaza de España and within walking distance of the Royal Palace and central transport links.

• Donation: Donated to Spain by Egypt in 1968 as thanks for help with the international Nubia rescue programme and reassembled in Madrid's Parque del Oeste in the early 1970s.
• Best time: The site is popular at sunset when the temple silhouette and the shallow reflecting pool produce notable views across the water.

What to See #

• Main temple: The reconstructed main temple complex moved from Nubia and rebuilt on a raised platform, typically framed by a reflecting pool that is used for views and photography.