Hathor was among the most important and popular deities in ancient Egypt. She was associated with music, joy, dance and motherhood; she was also known as the lady of the sky. Her main cult center was at Dendera where one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt stands today. The entrance of the temple, with six massive columns surmounted with the head of Hathor, is considered among the most beautiful monuments in Egypt. Sistrums (a musical instrument) closely associated with the goddess, frame her head.