Qus - An Important of Egypt’s History

Qus, Egypt was once the center of worship for the god Horus, and is now home to numerous ruins to be explored, as well as the famed El-Amri Mosque.

The Brief History of Qus

Qus may not be as well known as Cairo or Luxor, but this city in the modern Qena Governorate, located on the east bank of the Nile River, has many impressive historical sites to offer tourists who want to see something new.

Qus certainly has history on its side, as it was founded in 1083 C.E. At one time, Qus was one of the most important cities in Egypt history, it serving as a meeting point for expeditions out to the Red Sea. It lost some popularity for a time but then peaked again in the 13th century when an alternate commercial route to the Red Sea was established, which helped solidify trading agreements with the rest of Africa, as well as India and Arabia.

Though there is still a crowded population of about 300,000 in the modern capital of Qus, much of the city’s former glory is now ruins. What can tourists expect to see in modern Qus? Right away they will notice two gates that were once part of the glorious Temple of Harwer in what was formerly named Apollinopolis Parva.

Horus the Elder

Harwer, also known as Horus, is one of the most interesting of Egyptian Gods. Horus the Elder was said to be the patron god of Upper Egypt and was drawn with the head of a hawk.

At one point in history, Qus was Horus’ worship center. Horus is credited with conquering Seth, the god of Lower Egypt, at Edfu. Mythology claims that the eyes of Horus were truly supernatural, as his right eye was the sun and his left eye was the moon. The reason for the difference in brightness? Horus’ left eye was injured in battle against Seth, hence the moon’s weaker light.

Other Attractions

Other popular attractions in the area include the El-Amri Mosque, well-known for its basin that is made of a single old stone bearing the name Ptolemy II Philadelphus. While you’re near Qus don’t forget to visit the nearby village of Tukh, which holds the remains of ancient Ombos, a former capital of Upper Egypt. This area is famous for its large prehistoric cemeteries.

Around Ombos you can also find a Coptic Christian Village, with a brick mastaba, which dates back to the time of the Egyptian Pharaoh Menes, the first Dynasty King and the founding father of Ancient Egypt.

Traveling to Qus is certainly an educational and exciting experience. If you are planning on taking some private tours or luxury tours of Luxor and surrounding areas, then make plans to stop and see Qus!

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