29/05/2025
4.9 / 5
Discover the Temple of Debod in Madrid, an ancient Egyptian temple offering stunning views and rich history. Learn about its origins, architecture, and visiting tips.
The Temple of Debod is a remarkable ancient Egyptian temple located in the heart of Madrid, Spain. This unique structure, dating back to the 2nd century BC, was originally built in Nubia, near the Nile River, and was dedicated to the goddess Isis. It was later gifted to Spain in 1968 as a token of gratitude for Spain's help in saving other temples during the construction of the Aswan Dam.
The temple was constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Adikhalamani and was originally situated in the Nile Valley. It was moved to Madrid, where it was reconstructed in the Parque del Oeste, allowing visitors to experience a piece of ancient Egyptian history far from its original location.
The Temple of Debod is open to the public and is free to enter, making it an accessible attraction for both locals and tourists. Here are some essential visiting tips:
Admission to the Temple of Debod is free, making it an excellent option for budget travelers looking to explore Madrid's rich cultural heritage.
The Temple of Debod is not just a historical monument; it is a symbol of cultural exchange and appreciation between Egypt and Spain. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and picturesque setting make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Madrid.
Daniel Garcia
5/5
One of the most magical sunset spots in Madrid. The Temple of Debod is an unexpected treasure in the heart of the city—an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain, now set against a backdrop of wide skies and golden-hour brilliance. I went at sunset, and it felt surreal: the stone structure glowing with warm light, reflections shimmering in the surrounding pool, and the sky transforming into layers of pink, orange, and purple. Just a short walk down from the temple, there’s a stunning panoramic view of the lower part of the city. The contrast between the ancient temple and the modern cityscape below makes this spot feel like a peaceful, elevated pause from the buzz of Madrid. It’s one of those rare places that balances history, beauty, and atmosphere all in one. Highly recommend timing your visit for late afternoon and staying through sunset—you won’t forget it.
Denise Jackson
5/5
The ancient temple is beautifully juxtaposed with the modern city it now calls home. It's located in a stunning park that offers plenty of shade—perfect for those hot Madrid summers. The interior is definitely worth a peek; I had only visited the outside before, either to admire the temple or for picnics, and was pleasantly surprised to find it has a second floor—small, but it’s there! If you have kids, it’s a fun and educational stop where they can experience a bit of Egypt right in the center of Madrid and escape the heat at the same time. There are hieroglyphs for them to find on the ancient stone walls, and exhibits that include replicas showing where the temple originally stood along. Note there are no bathrooms in the temple and the public bathrooms are typically out of order. So be prepared to go to one of the restaurants and purchase something to use there facilities.
Tom W
4/5
No water when I went which was a shame. The people working there were friendly and helpful though, and it was a fascinating experience. You won't need more than 20 minutes but it's worth booking as it's free just do it well in advance.
Average Rating: ⭐ 4.9/5