Let's Illuminate the Past / Illumination in Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egypt: Spiritual and Symbolic Uses of Light

Ancient Egypt used lighting for both religious and functional purposes. Egyptian temples and monuments were built with an awareness of the spiritual atmosphere that lighting could create in sacred spaces. However, the lighting technologies of this civilization were quite simple and were generally limited to torches, oil lamps, and oil lamps.

Lighting Tools

Oil Lamps: Lamps that worked with oils such as olive oil were used in the interiors of temples. These lamps were used both to illuminate the night and to illuminate sacred areas during rituals. Torches: Torches were preferred to illuminate the inner courtyards and open areas of temples. They also carried religious meanings by being used in burial ceremonies and sacred passages.

Influences on Architecture

The most striking use of lighting in ancient Egypt is seen in the interior and exterior spaces of large structures such as the pyramids and temples. Large temples such as the Luxor and Karnak Temples created a mystical atmosphere by carefully using natural light. Egyptian architects concentrated light in certain areas by admitting it through temple entrances and narrow corridors. The light effects, especially in the main halls of temples, were used to enhance the worship of the gods and the spiritual connection.