If you have a passion for history and an intrigue for the ancient Egyptian civilization, the name Abu Simbel may not be unfamiliar to you. Situated on the southern border of Egypt, near the Nile River, Abu Simbel is home to a complex of ancient temples dating back to the 13th century BCE, a staggering 3,300 years ago.
Built by the mighty pharaoh Ramesses II, also known as the Temple of Ramesses II, this colossal stone complex marked the southern boundary of the Egyptian Empire with Nubia during its zenith in the New Kingdom period.
The primary purpose of this ancient temple complex was to project the power of Egypt’s rulers to anyone who laid eyes on it. The four colossal statues guarding the entrance are among the largest surviving sculptures from ancient Egyptian times.
Abu Simbel remained virtually forgotten for centuries, buried under the desert sands, until the Swiss explorer John Lewis Burckhardt rediscovered it in 1813. At that time, the temple had long vanished from human civilization, covered entirely by the desert, except for the tops of the giant statues placed at the entrance.
Since the last remnants of sand were cleared in 1909, this twin temple has become the most renowned tourist destination in southern Egypt.
The Grand Temple:
Known as the Temple of Ramesses II, this temple took approximately 20 years to construct. Dedicated to gods including Ptah (god of darkness), Amun-Re (sun god), Re-Harakti (king’s benevolent god), and Pharaoh Ramesses II himself, it is considered the largest and most beautiful among the temples built during Ramesses II’s reign.
The Small Temple:
The second temple, the Small Temple, honors the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari. The façade of the temple is adorned with two groups of colossal statues separated by a large gate.
Ramesses II had a unique request during the construction of the Grand Temple. He wanted the sun to illuminate specific areas of the temple only twice a year, on the anniversaries of his ascent to the throne (February 22) and his birthday (October 22). This annual event allows sunlight to penetrate the deepest recesses, brightening the statues of Pharaoh Ramesses II and the gods.
Especially remarkable is the fact that during these two days, the sunlight will illuminate the statue of the god Amun-Re first, then slowly move to the adjacent statues but never reaching the god Ptah, symbolizing darkness.
For over 3,200 years, the face of Pharaoh Ramesses II has only been illuminated on these two specific dates, showcasing the extraordinary intellect of the ancient Egyptian architects and philosophers.
Intrigued travelers and history enthusiasts continue to marvel at the wonders of Abu Simbel, a testament to the enduring brilliance of ancient Egyptian civilization.
