What is Abu Simbel?
Abu Simble Temples were constructed by the most celebrated Ancient Egyptian king Ramses II. The process of construction began in Aswan. The temples were mainly cut into a solid rock cliff. The main goal behind the construction was to celebrate the victory of Ramses II that was established during the Hittites at Kadish battle in 1274 BCE.
Abu Simble Temples are one of the world’s most breathtaking monuments, and Egypt’s second most visited touristic site, the Pyramids of Giza being on the top of the list. The relocation of the temples was a historic event in the 1960s. At that time, the temples were threatened by submersion in Lake Nasser when the High Dam was constructed. The Egyptian government with the support of UNESCO launched a worldwide appeal to save these colossal landmarks.
Purpose of Abu Simbel
The temple was dedicated to a number of ancient Egyptian gods such as Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and Amon.
What is Found on Abu Simbel Complex?
Abu Simble complex mainly contains two main temples:
The Grand Temple that stands 30 meters high and 35 meters long featuring four seated colossi at the entrance of King Ramses II on his throne.
It also contains a number of paths and rooms. Scripts could be found written on the walls about Ramses’ II military victories, his personal life alongside portrayals of Ancient Egyptian gods.
The small temple was constructed for the Egyptian Queen Nefertari, Ramses II most favourite wife.
Located 150 meters far away from the Grand Temple, the Small Temple has a front featuring four great seated colossi, two of Ramses II and two of Nefertari.
The walls of this temple display images of Ramses and Nefertari while they’re praying to the gods
What is the Abu Simbel Sun Festival?
While building the Abu Simbel Temple, Ramses II wanted to light his inner room twice a year – the first time on February 22, on the anniversary of his ascension to the throne and the second time on his birthday on October 22.
The Abu Simbel Festival is a bi-annual event held at the magnificent Ramses II Temple in southern Egypt. On two days of the year, the central room of the temple is lit by the sun. For a short period of time, the sun would ideally line up to illuminate the inner sanctuary of the usually dark interior. Smart architecture means that the internal statues of the temple of Ra (sun god) and Amun (king of the gods) are lit. Only Ptah, the god of darkness, remains in the shadows. This event has been taking place for more than 3,200 years.
The construction of the Aswan Dam in the 1960s threatened to submerge Abu Simbel underwater, so the entire complex was moved in an arduous process to remove it 200 meters from the high water line. The project cost millions of dollars but allowed the most famous temples to remain, and Egypt to obtain the development it needed from the dam. Since this step, the Sun Festival is now held one day later than it was in the time of Ramses II.
What Celebrations Occur During the Sun Festival?
Very early in the morning, large crowds of locals and Egyptians from all over the country join international visitors to gather together before sunrise outside the temple. Here, they watch as the sun rises and cuts through the darkness of the temple’s inner chamber to get a good look at the marvellous sight of the three statues bathed in sunlight. Once the sun rises too high and the statues fall back into shadow, everyone eats, drinks, dances, and celebrates. The day is full of fun and excitement. You’ll see traditional singers and dancers showing off their skills. There are artisans of all kinds sharing their trade. There is also plenty of opportunity to try delicious local Egyptian food. Meet some friendly locals and get to know today’s Egyptian culture as well.
Recommended Abu Simbel Sun Festival Tours
If you want to see this scene on your own, check out our specially designed tours that include the Abu Simbel Sun Festival as well as stroll around the most popular ancient sites in Egypt from the Pyramids of Giza to the royal tombs in Luxor. Accompanied by a qualified local guide to Egyptology, it’s the best way to enjoy solar phenomena while learning all about them.