Work in Egypt

Emperor Trajan’s Work in Egypt

The time between 98 AD and 180 AD is considered the golden age of the Roman Empire, and two of the most important emperors during this period were Trajan and Hadrian. During his first visit to Egypt, Emperor Trajan held a trial for a corrupt governor, Maximus. Trajan found Maximus guilty of taking bribes and abusing his power. Trajan had a fortress built in the middle of Egypt (nowadays known as Old Cairo). This fortress, called Babylon, became the main Roman military base in Egypt, outside of Alexandria. During a visit to the Temple of Philae, Trajan also built a very beautiful building, which was called Trajan’s Kiosk. It has some of the most beautiful carvings from the Roman era in Egypt.

Emperor Trajan’s Kiosk in the Temple of Philae

statue of Emperor Trajan