Temple of Tod (Djerty)

Located about 20km south of Luxor on the East Bank, the village of Tod (ancient Djerty) holds the ruins of a temple dedicated to Montu, the falcon-headed god of war. While less preserved than other major temples, Tod is famous worldwide for the discovery of the "Tod Treasure"—four bronze chests filled with silver, lapis lazuli, and gold, hidden beneath the temple floor during the Middle Kingdom. [1]

Quick facts Encyclopedic guide FAQ
Tod (South of Luxor) Silver Treasure God Montu

Quick facts

A fast snapshot of the Temple of Tod—its deity, its discovery, and its historical layers.

Location

Village of Tod, East Bank of the Nile, 20km south of Luxor. Ancient name: Djerty. [1]

Dedicated to

Montu (Lord of Tod), his consorts Raet-Tawy or Tjenenyet, and their son Iunmutef. [2]

History

Origins in the Old Kingdom (Userkaf). Major phases in the Middle Kingdom (Senusret I), New Kingdom (Thutmose III), and Ptolemaic era. [3]

Remains

Stone kiosk of Thutmose III/Amenhotep II, Ptolemaic hypostyle hall remains, and a sacred lake (dry). [1]

Discovery

Excavated by French archaeologist Fernand Bisson de la Roque in 1936, who found the famous treasure. [2]

Visiting

Accessible by taxi from Luxor. It is a quiet site, perfect for those avoiding crowds. Ticket required.

Encyclopedic guide

Uncover the secrets of the Temple of Tod—from the silver tribute of foreign lands to the worship of the Falcon Lord.

The Serene Sanctuary

The Temple of Tod is a tranquil archaeological site situated amongst palm groves and village houses. Unlike the bustling Karnak, Tod offers a peaceful glimpse into Egypt's past layers. The site is dominated by the remains of a Ptolemaic temple, but its history goes much deeper. Blocks from the Middle Kingdom and New Kingdom have been found reused or scattered around the site, revealing a long continuity of worship. [1]

Ruins of Tod Temple
The stone remains of the Temple of Tod, with the kiosk of Thutmose III and the later Ptolemaic structures.

Key Features

  • The Kiosk: A small, elegant stone structure built by Thutmose III and restored by Amenhotep II. It served as a waystation for the god's barque. [2]
  • Sacred Lake: A depression to the side of the temple marks the location of the sacred lake, once used for ritual purification. [3]
  • Block Yard: An open-air museum of blocks arranged by archaeologists, showing inscriptions from the Middle Kingdom temple of Senusret I. [1]

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to common questions about the Temple of Tod.

The treasure was divided. The majority is in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo (Tahrir), and a portion is in the Louvre Museum in Paris. The silver cups are the most famous items. [1]
In ancient Egypt, silver was rarer than gold because it had to be imported (often from Anatolia or Greece). The presence of such a large hoard of silver at Tod indicates the immense wealth and international connections of the Middle Kingdom pharaohs. [2]
Yes, if you enjoy quiet, off-the-beaten-path sites. While not as grand as Karnak, its history and setting are unique. It's perfect for repeat visitors to Luxor looking for something new.

Sources & further reading

References supporting the historical data, architectural details, and dates presented in this guide.

  1. Bisson de la Roque, Fernand. Le Trésor de Tôd (The Treasure of Tod). IFAO, 1950.
  2. Wilkinson, Richard H. The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson, 2000.
  3. Pierrat-Bonnefois, Geneviève. Fouilles de Tôd (Excavations of Tod). IFAO.
  4. Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities (Egypt).

Note on visiting: Opening hours and ticket prices are subject to change by the Ministry of Tourism. Please check official sources prior to your visit.

Last updated: February 18, 2026