Nilometer
The Nilometer was the official measure of the height of the Nile, an important function as the river's flood height directly affected Egypt's agricultural output. The dependence of the population on a successful flood season elevated the status of the Nilometer to that of a sacred object, and many small Nilometers were even installed in temples. Telling of its importance to Egyptian culture and identity, a Christian mob actually removed one from a converted temple complex because it represented a connection with the Egyptian gods.
