The large town stands at the crossroads of trade routes from Memphis to Sinai and further to the east. The temple of Bastet, a major cult centre for the lion headed goddess, is the major architectural focal point. The architectural landscape of the temple and the religious ceremonies associated with the worship of Bastet were recorded by Herodotus and excavations have confirmed aspects of his description including that the temple stood on an island. Other buildings at the site include ka temple of Teti and Pepy I, sed-festival chapels of Amenemhat III and Amenhotep III, a possible palace from the Middle Kingdom, and a temple of Atum built by Osorkon II. Tombs date from the Old Kingdom.