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The Abu Simbel temples are one of the most incredible structures in the entire country of Egypt, standing as the testament to the New Kingdom's strength and power, and also to Pharaoh Ramses II's majesty. This enormous complex of temples was carved directly into a mountain, on the western bank of the Nasser lake, in the 13 th century BC, to display his divine power, as well as to pay homage to the deities Amun, Ra-Horakhty and Ptah and to his wife Nefertari. Abu Simbel is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Upper Egypt, a mandatory part of any Egypt Tours, visited by tourists from all parts of the world who come to marvel at its huge statues, accurate alignment and the amazing story of its relocation which saved it from disappearing under the waters of Nasser Lake, after the erection of the Aswan High Dam. we hope your Ultimate Egypt Travel Guide assists you in planning your once-in-a-lifetime vacation! Let us walk you through exploring Egypt's most magnificent sites, including the awe-inspiring pyramids of Giza, and the incredible temples of Luxor and Aswan, while covering all corners of Egypt!
The History of Abu Simbel and the Vision of Ramses II (Abu Simbel Temple History)
The history of Abu Simbel temple began when one of the greatest rulers of ancient Egypt, Pharaoh Ramses II commissioned the Great Temple of Abu Simbel to be carved as an enduring monument of his reign and a symbol of Egyptian dominance over Nubia. The entrance is adorned by four colossal statues of Ramses II in seated poses, the largest and some of the most recognizableAbu Simbel giant statues in Egypt.
Once inside, intricately carved halls portray military victories, religious rites and offerings to the gods reflecting the divine reign of the pharaoh, these fascinating inscriptions have made Abu Simbel one of the most important archaeological sites in Abu Simbel Egypt and tourists can marvel at them while taking Egypt Tours to Abu Simbel from Aswan.
The Incredible Relocation of Abu Simbel Temple (Abu Simbel UNESCO Rescue Project)
Arguably the most talked about event in Abu Simbel history was the relocation of this world heritage monument during the 1960's, when the construction of Aswan High Dam threatened to inundate the temples under Lake Nasser. The UNESCO launched an operation, regarded as one of the most complex and expensive archaeological rescues in history; The Abu Simbel relocation project involved cutting the entire Abu Simbel rock temple into about 1,000 giant blocks, which were then dismantled, raised up 65 meters and reassembled on a new site. This brilliant feat of engineering ensured that the temples retained their original design and orientation. It is a testament to modern ingenuity, one of the most spectacular tourist attractions on Egypt Tours from Aswan and undoubtedly one of the most fascinating tales in Egypt tourism history.
The Sun Festival - Abu Simbel Solar Alignment Phenomenon
One of the most mystical occasions in Abu Simbel takes place on 22nd February and 22nd October each year when the Sun Festival occurs; Sunlight illuminates the statues of the gods within the inner sanctuary of Abu Simbel Great Temple, but never the god Ptah. This breathtaking Abu Simbel solar alignment is a reminder of the genius of ancient Egyptian engineers and astronomical experts, millions of travelers flock on Egypt Tours to Abu Simbel Sun Festival each year and it is certainly one of the most unique cultural happenings in Egypt; and it all goes to prove why Abu Simbel is not just one of the most famous tourist sites in Egypt but one of the wonders of the world.
Visiting Abu Simbel Today - Best Abu Simbel Tours from Aswan
Taking one of the many day tours to Abu Simbel fromAswan or flying fromAswandirectly to visit this remote gem in southern Egypt offers a great opportunity to witness an iconic part of Egyptian history. Traveling through the picturesque Nubian desert on a way to Abu Simbel adds another level of adventure to one of the most popular Luxury Egypt Tours including Abu Simbel. From the imposing figures of Ramses II guarding the entrance of the Abu Simbel Great Temple to the rich inscriptions on the interior walls and the amazing sun festival, the wonders never cease. Visiting Abu Simbel with Aswan sightseeing tours are simply unforgettable and definitely a must see while exploring ancient Egyptian monuments.
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