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Temple of Apedemak in Naqa

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Temple of Apedemak in Naqa, also known as the Lion Temple, is an outstanding example of Meroitic architecture and art from the 1st century AD. It was built by King Natakamani and Queen Amanitore and is dedicated to the indigenous Nubian lion god, Apedemak. The structure is characterized by its impressive reliefs, which show a unique fusion of Egyptian motives and purely African stylistic elements. Particularly noteworthy is the depiction of the royal couple, demonstrating their power and devotion to the gods. The temple has remained largely well-preserved due to its remote location in the steppe. The temple's pylons depict Apedemak as a warlike god, often accompanied by lions or snakes. Naqa was once an important hub for trade between the Nile Valley and the Red Sea, and this temple was the spiritual heart of the settlement. Today, it is one of the most visited ruin sites in Sudan, offering deep insights into the independence of Meroitic culture.

Location: Sudan
Nearby: Shendi (41 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	22	25	28	31	34	35	34	32	33	32	27	24
Rain mm	0	0	0	0	4	3	24	40	15	6	0	0

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Temple of Apedemak in Naqa is an archaeological site in the desert that can be visited freely. There is no entrance building, and access is possible during the day.

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Typical hours

The site is typically accessible from sunrise to sunset as there are no fixed opening hours. Best visited early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site - the reliefs and architecture are fantastic subjects. Be careful not to step on fragile areas to protect the ruins.

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Time needed

Allow about 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple and surrounding structures. The remote location makes for a peaceful experience without time pressure.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with other sites in Naqa, such as the Kiosk and the Lion Temples. The nearby site of Musawwarat es-Sufra is also reachable by car.

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Getting there

Naqa is about 130 km northeast of Khartoum, best reached by 4x4 vehicle. The road is partly unpaved, so an off-road car is recommended.

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Insider tip

Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there are no facilities on site. A hat and sturdy footwear are essential for exploring the sandy terrain.

Geography

Coordinates

16.27190, 33.30890

Facts

Apedemak is often depicted with a lion's body and a snake's head.
Queen Amanitore is shown in the reliefs as an equal ruler to the king.
The temple was built from sandstone blocks without the use of mortar.
The exterior walls feature inscriptions in Meroitic hieroglyphic script.
Naqa is located about 50 kilometers from the Nile in the Butana steppe.
The temple was rediscovered in the 19th century by European explorers.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Musawwarat es-Sufra3 km · NWExplore →

Naqa4 km · SExplore →

6th Nile Cataract34 km · SExplore →

Shendi Reach41 km · EExplore →

Sabaloka Gorge46 km · SExplore →

Jebel Shabluka57 km · SExplore →

Nile59 km · WExplore →

Khartoum Oil Refinery (Al-Jaili)79 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Temple of Apedemak in Naqa (1)

Karabat Wad Ezeiriq🌿 nature

Karabat Wad Ezeiriq is a remote peak that punctuates the arid, scrub-covered landscape near the Temple of Apedemak.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How to reach the temples of Naqa?

Best reached by 4x4 vehicle from Khartoum (approx. 2-3 hours).

What is special about this temple?

It is one of the best-preserved Meroitic temples with amazing reliefs.

Are there sanitary facilities?

No, there is no tourist infrastructure on-site.

Is a guide necessary?

Highly recommended, as the site is remote and not well signposted.

What equipment should be brought?

Plenty of drinking water, sturdy shoes, and sun protection are essential.

Temple of Apedemak in Naqa: where is it located?

Temple of Apedemak in Naqa is located in Sudan.

Temple of Apedemak in Naqa: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

Temple of Apedemak in Naqa: why is it worth visiting?

The Temple of Apedemak in Naqa, also known as the Lion Temple, is an outstanding example of Meroitic architecture and art from the 1st century AD.

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