Abu Simbel Temple Festival Guide
Witness the Miracle: The Abu Simbel Sun Festival Guide
The Abu Simbel Temple Festival is a twice-yearly spectacle that draws visitors from around the globe to witness a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and astronomical alignment. Celebrated on February 22nd and October 22nd, the festival commemorates the birthdays and coronations of Pharaoh Ramses II, the temple's builder. The main event is the sun's rays penetrating the temple's inner sanctuary to illuminate the statues of Ramses II, Ra-Horakhty, and Amun. The Great Temple of Abu Simbel was constructed by Ramses II in the 13th century BC to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Kadesh and to assert his divine status. The temple was carefully oriented so that on two specific days each year, the rising sun would shine directly into the sanctuary, illuminating the statues of the pharaoh and the gods. In the 1960s, the temple was painstakingly relocated to higher ground to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The relocation project was a monumental feat of engineering and international cooperation. During the festival, visitors can witness the sun's rays gradually illuminating the statues within the temple's sanctuary. The event is accompanied by traditional Nubian music, dance performances, and cultural displays. It's a truly unforgettable experience that combines history, art, and the wonders of the natural world. While in Abu Simbel, sample local Egyptian cuisine, including *ful medames* (fava bean stew), *ta'ameya* (Egyptian falafel), and fresh fish from Lake Nasser.
Transportation
The most common way to reach Abu Simbel is by taking a flight from Aswan. Several daily flights connect Aswan International Airport to Abu Simbel Airport. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour from Aswan, which typically includes transportation by bus or private vehicle.