Outer Court
Approaching the pylon towers which made out the entrance into the Outer Court the processional path lead up to the great portal which was set between them. Passing through it one reached an outer court. The general worshipper was probably not allowed further into the temple building than this. Here he was met by priests who received his offerings and forwarded them into the temple. Shrines with statues of other gods beside the one which the temple was built for was often found here and the visitor could honor these, leave offerings and pray by them.
Inner Court
Often yet another pair of pylons had to be passed before the inner court was reached. These courtyards were without roof, this open space in front of the pylons went back to the original reed shrines in predynastic times. Reliefs on the walls depicted the king in battle or making offerings to the gods. It is uncertain if the common townspeople were allowed entry here, perhaps they were allowed to watch some of the rites on festival days.