Masonry in the Media: Temple of Karnak, Angkor Thom, and More

The settings of films can take viewers to different parts of the world and express the story through visually stunning locations. From ancient ruins to medieval architectural marvels, these four iconic movie locations enhanced the storytelling of the movies they were in.

Temple of Karnak - The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)

The Temple of Karnak, located in Luxor, Egypt, is a vast religious complex primarily dedicated to Amun-Ra, the chief god in ancient Egyptian mythology. Its construction began around 2000 BCE with contributions from numerous pharaohs throughout history. Hypostyle Hall, a part of the temple’s complex, features 134 sandstone columns that reflect advanced ancient masonry techniques while exemplifying its architectural grandeur. Limestone and red granite are also used in some of the other temple’s buildings and obelisks. Other materials like red quartzite, black granite, and travertine were used in more decorative features of the temple. The temple’s alignment and massive stonework were designed to symbolize cosmic order, emphasizing the temple’s role as a center of power.

In the film The Spy Who Loved Me, James Bond and Russian agent Triple X chase the villainous henchman, Jaws, into the Temple of Karnak. As the duo pursues Jaws, they follow him through the site’s towering columns and shadowy corridors creating a sense of danger and intrigue, complementing the suspenseful chase. The scenes filmed at Karnak underscore the movie’s globe-trotting appeal, highlighting Egypt’s rich cultural heritage while intertwining it with the spy-thriller narrative.

Ely Cathedral - The King’s Speech (2010)

In Cambridgeshire, England, Ely Cathedral stands as an iconic example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Its construction began under Abbot Simeon in 1083 and continued into the 14th century, showcasing revolving architectural styles. The cathedral is renowned for its octagonal lantern tower, an engineering marvel of medieval masonry completed in 1322 by William Hurley. The cathedral implements stone quarried from Barnack in Northamptonshire as well as Purbeck marble for the more decorative aspects of the church. Ely Cathedral symbolizes medieval ingenuity, serving as both a spiritual center and an architectural marvel.

In The King’s Speech, Ely Cathedral doubles as Westminster Abbey, playing a pivotal role in the film’s climactic scenes. The cathedral’s ornate detailing and dramatic lighting enhance the emotional weight of the king’s journey to overcome his stammer and embrace his role as monarch. In showcasing the enduring Ely Cathedral, the film captures the grandeur and solemnity of the occasion, while also highlighting the story’s themes of resilience and inner strength.

Angkor Thom - Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)

Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire, was established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII in modern day Cambodia. The Angkor monuments primarily used sandstone for the buildings and sanctuaries while the eight-meter-high enclosure walls were made of laterite, a type of reddish sedimentary rock that is rich in iron. The city’s centerpiece is the Bayon temple, known for its iconic towers adorned with enigmatic smiling faces. Angkor Thom’s precise urban planning, monumental gates, and symbolic layout make it a significant achievement in Southeast Asian architectural history.

In the movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Angkor Thom serves as a visually stunning and atmospheric backdrop that enhances the film’s adventurous tone. The movie primarily used the Ta Prohm temple within Angkor Thom as the overgrown jungle has seeped into the structure and its labyrinthine architecture heightens the sense of danger and discovery in the film. As the Lara Croft explores and uncovers ancient secrets within the city, it gives the audience a chance to share in Lara’s adventure too. Angkor Thom captivates audiences with its visual splendor and historical heritage, solidifying it as an iconic cinematic setting that complements Lara Croft’s adventurous spirit.

Tower of London - Muppets Most Wanted (2014)

The Tower of London, founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, is a historic fortress on the Thames River in London. Its central building, the White Tower, exemplifies Norman military architecture with its use of Kentish Ragstone and Caen stone imported from France. Over the centuries, various monarchs have expanded the complex with curtain walls, towers, and gates. The Tower has been used as a royal residence, prison, and treasury- most notably holding the Crown Jewels of England. The Tower of London remains a symbol of royal authority and a masterpiece of medieval military construction.

In Muppets Most Wanted, the Tower of London is a key location in the film’s comedic heist plot. It serves as the setting for Constantine and Dominc Badguy’s elaborate scheme to steal the Crown Jewels. The iconic fortress, with its historic and imposing presence, adds a playful juxtaposition to the Muppets’ whimsical antics. By incorporating such a renowned landmark, the movie enhances its international caper theme while introducing younger audiences to one of London’s most famous landmarks.

Masonry in the Media: Temple of Karnak, Angkor Thom, and More

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