History and Significance
The Great Temple of Abu Simbel was dedicated to the gods Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and the deified Ramses II himself. The temple’s facade features four colossal statues of Ramses II, each standing over 20 meters tall. Inside, the walls are decorated with battle scenes, including the famous Battle of Kadesh.
Relocation and UNESCO World Heritage
In the 1960s, due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam, the temples were at risk of being submerged by Lake Nasser. In a massive international effort led by UNESCO, the entire complex was moved to higher ground—an incredible feat of engineering and preservation.
Visitor Information & Travel Tips
Today, Abu Simbel is a top tourist destination in Egypt. Most travelers visit via a short flight or early-morning tour from Aswan. Every year on February 22 and October 22, the Sun Festival draws crowds to witness the sunlight illuminate the inner sanctuary—a phenomenon designed by ancient architects.
