Abu Simbel Temples – An Unmissable Monument of Ancient Egypt
Situated on the western bank of the Nile River, the Abu Simbel Temples in Egypt are an unmissable highlight of any visit to this ancient land. This awe-inspiring monument is a testament to the incredible engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians and their understanding of astronomy. Built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE, the two temples at Abu Simbel were designed to honor the Pharaoh and the gods of the Egyptian pantheon.
History and Context of Abu Simbel Temples
Abu Simbel is made up of two temples, the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Small Temple of Nefertari, his beloved queen. The Great Temple was designed to honor the gods Amun-Re, Re-Horakhty, and Ptah, as well as the Pharaoh himself. The Small Temple was dedicated to the goddess Hathor and his wife Nefertari.
The Great Temple of Ramses II is a huge structure, with four colossi of the Pharaoh seated at the entrance, each one 20 meters in height. Inside, there are a series of reliefs depicting Ramses II’s military victories and his deification by the gods. The Small Temple of Nefertari is much smaller, but it still contains some stunning reliefs, depicting the Queen in various poses and with the gods.
The Temples of Abu Simbel were built to commemorate the Pharaoh’s victories in the Battle of Kadesh, which took place in 1274 BCE. The temples also served as a reminder of Ramses II’s status as the most powerful Pharaoh in the ancient world.
Relocation of Abu Simbel Temples
In the 1960s, the Abu Simbel Temples were threatened by the rising waters of the Nile River, caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. In an unprecedented project, the temples were dismantled piece by piece and moved to a higher location. The relocation of the temples was a huge success and the Abu Simbel Temples remain a popular tourist attraction to this day.
What to See at Abu Simbel Temples
When visiting the Abu Simbel Temples, the first thing you will notice is the four huge statues of Ramses II at the entrance of the Great Temple. Inside, you will find a number of exquisite reliefs depicting the Pharaoh’s military victories and his deification by the gods. In the Small Temple of Nefertari, there are some stunning reliefs depicting the Queen in various poses and with the gods.
Visiting Tips for Abu Simbel Temples
When visiting the Abu Simbel Temples, it is important to bear in mind that the area is very hot and there is very little shade. It is best to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler. It is also important to wear a hat and bring plenty of water.
The Abu Simbel Temples are a must-see when visiting Egypt and a great way to learn about the ancient culture and history of this fascinating country. With its breathtaking monuments, breathtaking views, and fascinating history, the Abu Simbel Temples are a must-see for any traveler.