Attraction Guide: Abu Simbel Temples, Aswan, Egypt

Abu Simbel Temples Guide

Abu Simbel: Colossal Temples Saved from the Nile Guide

Prepare to be amazed by the Abu Simbel temples, two colossal rock-cut temples in southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan. These magnificent structures, built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, are a testament to his power and devotion to his queen, Nefertari. The temples were painstakingly relocated in the 1960s to save them from being submerged by the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam, a feat of engineering that cemented their place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ramses II, one of the most powerful and prolific pharaohs of ancient Egypt, commissioned the Abu Simbel temples to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Kadesh and to assert his divine status. The Great Temple is dedicated to Ramses II himself and to the gods Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and Amun. Its facade features four colossal statues of Ramses II, each over 20 meters tall. The Small Temple, dedicated to his beloved wife Nefertari and the goddess Hathor, is adorned with statues of Ramses II and Nefertari. In the 1960s, the temples were threatened by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. An international effort led to the temples being carefully dismantled, moved to higher ground, and reassembled, a remarkable feat of engineering that saved them for future generations. Visitors can explore the interior chambers of both temples, marveling at the intricate reliefs and paintings that depict scenes from Ramses II's life, his military campaigns, and his relationship with Nefertari. The Great Temple's inner sanctuary is famous for the "Sun Festival," which occurs twice a year (around February 22nd and October 22nd) when the sun's rays penetrate the temple and illuminate the statues of Ramses II and the gods. The Small Temple's delicate carvings and depictions of Nefertari are equally captivating. While in Aswan, sample Nubian cuisine, which features dishes like tagine (a slow-cooked stew), ful medames (fava bean stew), and various grilled meats, often seasoned with unique Nubian spices.