Although an extensive type of salinization of ancient Egyptian temples was recognised as early as 1977 and a general mechanism proposed and verified by computer modelling in 1980 for the Karnak complex (Luxor, Egypt), the extent of salinization was not documented, nor the side-effects sufficiently elucidated. The paper identifies and illustrates direct and indirect damage due to salinization of the Karnak Temple complex. Recent desalinization efforts are described with an outline of future necessary salinization studies. Photographs, 12 references.