Pylon (architecture)

For other uses, see Pylon.
Temple of Isis first pylon, Philae

A pylon is a monumental gate of an Egyptian temple (Egyptian: bxn.t in the Manuel de Codage transliteration[1]). The word comes from the Greek term πυλών 'gate'. It consists of two pyramidal towers, each tapered and surmounted by a cornice, joined by a less elevated section enclosing the entrance between them.[2] The gate was generally about half the height of the towers. Contemporary paintings of pylons show them with long poles flying banners.

  1. ^ Ermann & Grapow, Wörterbuch der ägyptischen Sprache, vol.1, 471.9–11
  2. ^ Toby Wilkinson, The Thames and Hudson Dictionary of Ancient Egypt, Thames & Hudson, 2005. p.195