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Abu Simbel temples Aswan governorate Egypt stands as enduring monuments to the ancient Egyptian civilization's glory and engineering prowess. Constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE, these temples are situated on the western bank of Lake Nasser. 

The complex consists of two remarkable structures: the Great Temple of Ramses II and the smaller Temple of Hathor. Both temples are adorned with colossal statues, intricate hieroglyphs, and impressive reliefs that depict various aspects of ancient Egyptian life and mythology. As symbols of power and devotion, Abu Simbel Temples continue to captivate visitors with their monumental architecture and historical significance. While you book your tour with Manta Tours, you will see this glory. 

Why is The Abu Simbel Temple Important?

The Abu Simbel Temple Egypt hold significant importance for several reasons:

• Historical significance: The temples were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE, showcasing the power and achievements of ancient Egypt's New Kingdom period.

• Architectural marvel: The temples are renowned for their monumental size, impressive statues, intricate carvings, and precise alignment with the sun's rays during specific times of the year.

• Cultural heritage: Abu Simbel represents the rich cultural and religious beliefs of ancient Egyptians, with depictions of gods, pharaohs, and religious rituals carved into its walls.

• Preservation efforts: The relocation of the temples in the 1960s to save them from being submerged by the waters of the Aswan High Dam reservoir demonstrates the global effort to preserve and protect humanity's cultural heritage.

• Tourism attraction: Abu Simbel attracts visitors from around the world, contributing to Egypt's tourism industry and allowing people to experience the grandeur and legacy of ancient Egyptian civilization firsthand.

When was Abu Simbel Built?

The Abu Simbel Temples were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE. The construction of the temples began around 1264 BCE and was completed around 1244 BCE, making them over 3,200 years old. These temples were built as monuments to commemorate Ramses II's victory at the Battle of Kadesh and to honor the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and Ramses himself. Therefore, Abu Simbel temple of Egypt is dedicated to Ramses II.

The temples were carved into the solid rock of a sandstone cliff on the western bank of the Nile River in Nubia, near present-day southern Egypt and the border with Sudan.

Where was Abu Simbel Originally Located?

Abu Simbel was originally located on the western bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan. Specifically, it was situated in the region of Nubia, approximately 230 kilometers southwest of the city of Aswan. 

The temples were carved into the side of a sandstone cliff, overlooking the Nile River. However, due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam and the resulting creation of Lake Nasser, the temples were relocated to higher ground to prevent them from being submerged by the rising waters.

Before And After Abu Simbel Relocation

How far was Abu Simbel moved? Before the relocation of the Abu Simbel Temples, they were situated in their original location on the western bank of the Nile River, near the border with Sudan. The temples were carved into the sandstone cliffside overlooking the river, with the Great Temple of Ramses II and the smaller Temple of Hathor standing as monumental structures in the Nubian desert.

After the relocation, which took place between 1964 and 1968, the temples were carefully dismantled and moved to higher ground, approximately 65 meters above their original location. This relocation was necessary to save the temples from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser, created by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. 

Today, the temples stand in their new location, meticulously reconstructed to maintain their original orientation and architectural integrity, allowing visitors to continue to marvel at their grandeur and significance.

What is Abu Simbel Inside?

Inside the Abu Simbel Temples, visitors encounter stunning architectural features, elaborate decorations, and intricate religious symbolism. Here's what you can find inside:

 

1- Great Temple of Ramses II

• Hypostyle Hall: Upon entering the temple, visitors pass through a grand hypostyle hall with colossal statues of Ramses II lining the walls.

• Sanctuary: At the end of the hall is the sanctuary, housing four seated statues: three of the gods Ptah, Amun, and Ra-Horakhty, and one of Ramses II himself, deified as a god.

2- Temple of Hathor

• Hypostyle Hall: Similar to the Great Temple, the smaller Temple of Hathor features a hypostyle hall with Hathor-headed columns.

• Sanctuary: The sanctuary of the Temple of Hathor contains a seated statue of Hathor, the goddess of love, music, and joy.

3- Wall reliefs and inscriptions

Both temples are adorned with intricate carvings, hieroglyphs, and reliefs depicting scenes from ancient Egyptian mythology, religious rituals, military victories, and the deification of the pharaohs.

4- Astronomical alignment

The inner sanctuaries of both temples are designed to align with the sun's rays on two specific dates of the year: February 22nd (the anniversary of Ramses II's ascension to the throne) and October 22nd (his birthday). During these times, sunlight penetrates the inner chambers and illuminates the statues of the gods, including Ramses II, seated inside.

Conclusion

The Abu Simbel Temples in Egypt stand as enduring testaments to the grandeur and ingenuity of ancient Egyptian civilization. Through their monumental architecture, intricate carvings, and religious symbolism, they offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and timeless legacy of this remarkable civilization.

FAQs

Why is Abu Simbel temples important?

Abu Simbel temples Egypt are important for their historical significance, architectural marvel, cultural heritage, and role as a tourism attraction, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Who built the Abu Simbel temples and why?

The Abu Simbel temples were built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Kadesh and to honor the gods.

How much time do you need at Abu Simbel?

Visitors typically spend around 1 to 2 hours at Abu Simbel to explore both temples, admire the colossal statues and intricate carvings, and appreciate the site's historical and cultural significance.