Audio Guide of Sacred Lake

The archaeological site is usually open every day from 08:00 to 16:00, although in summer it may stay open until 17:00. I recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and ensure entry before the last admission.

General admission to the Tanis site (San el-Hagar) is around 150 EGP for foreign visitors, with a reduced price for students with a valid ID. It is essential to bring cash in local currency, as credit cards are rarely accepted at the ticket office.

Set aside between 1.5 and 2 hours to explore the Sacred Lake and the surrounding ruins at a relaxed pace. The complex is extensive, and you will want enough time to appreciate the details of the obelisks and royal tombs without rushing.

Tanis was the 'Thebes of the North' and the capital during the Twenty-first and Twenty-second Dynasties, and its Sacred Lake was used for the purification of the priests of the Temple of Amun. It is famous worldwide for the discovery of the intact Royal Tombs and for inspiring the location of the Ark of the Covenant in the film 'Raiders of the Lost Ark.'

The best time is between October and April, when temperatures in the Nile Delta are milder. The ideal time of day is early morning (08:00 - 10:00), as the light is perfect for photography and you avoid the scorching midday sun.

Unfortunately, accessibility is limited because it is an archaeological site with uneven ground, sand, and loose stones. It is not adapted for wheelchairs, so caution and very comfortable footwear are recommended.

Right next to it you will find the famous Royal Necropolis, where the tombs of Psusennes I and Shoshenq II were discovered with their treasures of gold and silver. You will also see an impressive collection of colossal statues and fallen obelisks that testify to the city's ancient grandeur.

There is very little shade in the complex, so it is vital to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. To truly understand the history of these silent stones, I strongly suggest bringing a good guidebook or downloading an audio guide before you arrive, as on-site signage is limited.