The Abu Simbel Temple complex, hailed as one of the most magnificent temples, comprises two temples on the southern borders of Egypt, near Aswan City. These temples, which King Ramses II commissioned, are about 320 kilometers away from Aswan.
These majestic structures, the Temple of Ramses and the Temple of Queen Nefertari, both date back to Ramses II’s reign (1290-1223 BC), serving as enduring testaments to the grandeur of ancient Egypt.
Dedicated to the revered ancient Egyptian deities Amun-Ra, Harmakis, and Ptah, the Abu Simbel Temple houses four pharaoh statues.
Originally subjected to partial destruction, both temples were meticulously relocated to a site 65 meters higher than their original location to safeguard them from rising water levels. This monumental relocation effort, initiated in June 1964 and completed in September 1968, prevented their submersion.
While these temples boasted distinct architectural styles, showcasing the zenith of the New Kingdom, they faced the peril of inundation due to the Nile floods. Consequently, a collaborative effort between the Egyptian government and UNESCO rescued these temples from potential submersion.
The primary temple of Ramesses II, known as the Great Temple of Abu Simbel or the Sun Temple, was dedicated to four principal deities: Ptah, Ra, Harmakis, Amun Ra, and Ramses II himself.
The other temple, dedicated to Queen Nefertari, Ramses II’s beloved wife, also called the ‘Temple of Hathor,’ honors the sun god’s wife.
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Abu Simbel’s Modern Journey: Rediscovery and Relocation
Before visiting Abu Simbel, it’s crucial to acknowledge two significant moments: the rediscovery and its relocation. Over time, these temples fell into obscurity after the passing of pharaohs and were buried beneath desert sands, remaining unnoticed by the Greeks and Romans.
In the 19th century, during the peak of Egypt’s fascination, the Swiss explorer Louis Burckhardt stumbled upon these buried wonders in 1813. After unearthing colossal heads and structures protruding from the ground, he made efforts to reveal the monument’s magnificence.
Under the service of the British consul, Giovanni Belzoni, an Italian explorer, managed to create an entrance into the site, though initial attempts were limited.
Upon examination, it became evident that the temples no longer housed the treasures sought by treasure hunters of that era.
Throughout the 19th century, meticulous excavation work continued, culminating in 1909 with the complete extraction of Abu Simbel.
However, UNESCO launched a significant international campaign to save these temples from their imminent demise. The ambitious project involved relocating the temples to higher ground by splitting the original ruins into sizable stone blocks and reconstructing them at the new site.
This endeavor marked one of the most extensive heritage preservation projects, requiring collaboration among archaeologists and engineers from various nations.
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What to see in Abu Simbel?
Visiting Abu Simbel, solo or with a guide, requires careful planning due to its location. Understanding the elements and spaces within these monuments will enhance your experience.
Great Temple of Abu Simbel (Temple of Ramses II):
Dedicated to gods Ra-Horakhti, Amun, and Ptah, the Great Temple features Pharaoh Ramses II as the central figure, both externally and internally. Ramses II is depicted in four colossal seated statues, towering at 21 meters, among the largest surviving from Ancient Egypt. His family members, including his mother, Tiyi, favorite wife, Nefertari, and children, stand smaller but significant between his legs. A prominent relief of Ra-Horakhti, the Falcon-headed sun god, adorns the entrance.
The interior design is simpler than other Egyptian temples. The hypostyle room displays Ramses II as Osiris in 9-meter statues attached to pillars. Another chamber features his wife, Nefertari, depicted in sacred boats alongside other deities. The inner sanctuary houses seated statues of Ptah, Amun, Ra-Horakhti, and Ramses II. The temple’s precise orientation permits sunlight to penetrate and illuminate three figures, creating a symbolic solar phenomenon visible only on February 21 and October 21.
Temple of Hathor or Nefertari:
Adjacent to Ramses II’s temple, the Temple of Hathor, named after the goddess associated with ancient Egyptian queens, honors Queen Nefertari, Ramses’ beloved wife. Unusually, Nefertari is portrayed at the same colossal height as Ramses II, standing 10 meters tall. Six colossal statues—four representing the pharaoh and two depicting the queen—are featured.
Internally, this temple exhibits Nefertari alongside Hathor and other female divinities. It houses a hypostyle hall with columns having Hathor-shaped capitals, a sanctuary, and additional rooms.
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Night Visit and Access:
While most visitors explore Abu Simbel during the day due to transportation schedules, nighttime visits offer a magical experience. Both temples are illuminated with special lighting, creating a stunning display of light and color. Staying in local hotels or embarking on a private cruise on Lake Nasser facilitates night visits.
Accessing Abu Simbel can be by road or Lake Nasser cruises, offering picturesque views of other temples such as Qasr Ibrim, Amon, or Ouadi-es-Seboua. Tourist buses or private transport from Aswan or nearby accommodations are viable options for daytime visits.
How to get Abu Simbel?
The temples are open from 6 in the morning, allowing visitors to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise illuminating the majestic king’s statues. Access to Abu Simbel is available by road or via Lake Nasser.
Exploring these remarkable sites through a Lake Nasser cruise offers a delightful experience, especially for those who enjoy sailing and appreciate the tranquility of the water. From the lake, you can marvel at other temples like Qasr Ibrim, Amon, or Ouadi-es-Seboua, enhancing the journey’s scenic beauty.
For travelers seeking the comfort of accommodations in Abu Simbel or nearby Aswan, accessing the royal temples by road is convenient. Tourist buses provide a comfortable option for families, offering a chance to admire the city’s wonders while en route to Abu Simbel.
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