The Marvelous Abu Simbel Temples
The Abu Simbel Temples, located in Nubia, southern Egypt, are among the most impressive architectural wonders in the world. These ancient temples were carved into a mountainside more than 3,000 years ago, during the reign of King Ramses II, to commemorate his victory in the famous Battle of Kadesh. The temples are masterpieces of both design and engineering, showcasing intricate carvings, towering statues, and fascinating history.
The Temple of Ramses II
The first temple, the Great Temple of Ramses II, is the largest and most famous of the two. The facade features four colossal statues of the king himself, each measuring over 20 meters in height. The entire temple is covered in intricate hieroglyphics and bas-reliefs, depicting the various victories of Ramses II and other important events from ancient Egypt’s history. The inner sanctuary houses the statue of the king flanked by deities, and the whole temple is aligned with the sun so that twice a year, on the dates of Ramesses II’s birthday and crowing, the first rays of the morning sun illuminate the statue in the sanctuary. Expand your knowledge of the subject by exploring this recommended external website. Inside, you’ll uncover useful facts and additional data that will enhance your educational journey. Find more information in this helpful article, make sure not to skip it!
The Temple of Queen Nefertari
The smaller of the two temples, located just 67 meters from the Temple of Ramses II, is dedicated to the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari, Ramses II’s wife. It is no less impressive than the Great Temple, boasting intricate carvings and reliefs that tell the story of the queen’s life and association with the gods. The facade of the temple features six exquisite statues, four of which depict Queen Nefertari alongside four other goddesses and two of King Ramses II.
The Relocation of the Abu Simbel Temples
In a stunning feat of engineering, the Abu Simbel Temples were relocated in the 1960s to prevent them from drowning in the waters created by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The temples were dismantled piece by piece and moved to a higher location where they were reconstructed as accurately as possible. The relocation took four years to complete and cost over 40 million dollars, but the project was a resounding success, preserving these treasured monuments for future generations to enjoy.
Visiting Abu Simbel Temples
The Abu Simbel temples are open to visitors every day, from 6 am to 5 pm. To get there, you can take a flight from Aswan or Cairo, or join a guided tour. Entrance to the temples is included in the cost of the ticket, and there are plenty of guides available to help you understand the history and significance of each temple. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
Conclusion
The Abu Simbel Temples are a true marvel that every traveler should witness. The sheer scale and beauty of these temples will take your breath away, and the history and culture embedded in every stone will leave you awestruck. A visit to these temples will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the art and engineering skills of our ancient forebears. Don’t miss this external resource we’ve prepared for you. You’ll discover more intriguing details on the subject, broadening your understanding. Egypt pyramids tour.
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