The great temple of Abu Simbel, dedicated to the pharaoh Ramses II, is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture, carved out of the cliff and located near the Sudanese border. Built in the 13th century BC, this temple is famous for its four monumental colossi of Ramses II sitting at the entrance, measuring more than 20 meters high, as well as for its sumptuous reliefs and murals inside.
The location of the Abu Simbel Temple on the shores of Lake Nasser is impressive in itself, providing a spectacular setting for this historic monument. In 1960, faced with the construction of the Aswan Dam, an unprecedented international effort was undertaken to relocate the Abu Simbel Temple to save it from the rising waters. The temple was carefully cut into blocks and reconstructed at a higher location to preserve it for future generations.
Architecture and monumental sculptures
The great temple of Abu Simbel is characterized by its monumental architecture and impressive sculptures. The four colossi of Ramses II which guard the entrance to the temple are among the largest and most famous in ancient Egypt. Their size and their realism testify to the exceptional know-how of the sculptors of the time.
Inside the great temple of Abu Simbel
Reliefs and murals
Inside the great temple of Abu Simbel, visitors can admire lavish reliefs and murals that depict the life and exploits of Ramses II, as well as mythological and religious scenes. These works of art offer a fascinating insight into the culture, religion, and history of ancient Egypt.
The sanctuary and the solar alignment
The sanctuary of the great temple of Abu Simbel is dedicated to the gods Amun, Ra, Ptah and Ramses II deified. Twice a year, during the equinoxes, a unique phenomenon occurs: the sun's rays penetrate deep into the temple and illuminate the statues of the three gods and Ramses II, with the exception of Ptah, god of darkness, who remains in the shadows. This solar alignment testifies to the ingenuity and precision of ancient Egyptian architects.
Average temperatures and climate
Month | (° C) | (° F) | Weather | Climate |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | 15 | 59 | ☀️ | Sec |
February | 17 | 63 | ☀️ | Sec |
Mars | 21 | 70 | ☀️ | Sec |
April | 26 | 79 | ☀️ | Sec |
May | 31 | 88 | ☀️ | Sec |
June | 34 | 93 | ☀️ | Sec |
July | 35 | 95 | ☀️ | Sec |
August | 35 | 95 | ☀️ | Sec |
September | 33 | 91 | ☀️ | Sec |
October | 29 | 84 | ☀️ | Sec |
November | 23 | 73 | ☀️ | Sec |
December | 18 | 64 | ☀️ | Sec |
Schedules and info
Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. to 17:00 p.m. (may vary depending on the season)
Entrance fee: 200 EGP
Average price of a guide: 250 to 350 EGP
Other temples
Philae |
Edfu |