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Abu Simbel, the Temple Named for a Boy
Published by Jason Hussong, Writer
Country: Egypt 
The Experience
Long ago, in 1274 B.C., there was a great battle in present day Syria for control of the trade routes through the area. As many as 6,000 chariots, more than any other battle in history, and 70,000 men clashed for control, and an untold number were lost. Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses II claimed he won a great victory over the Hittite empire, but the true outcome of the battle is uncertain as Kadesh never actually fell. Still though, upon his return, Ramesses commissioned a great temple be built to commemorate what he considered his victory. What is left of that temple sits on what is now known as Lake Nasser; it is called Abu Simbel.
A legend tells that over 2,000 years later a local boy guided explorers to the site. It was almost completely covered in sand at this point, having fallen into disuse as many ancient Egyptian temples did, with only the top of the main temple visible. The four massive statues of Ramesses II, sitting tall at 66 feet (20 meters), which guard the entrance to the main temple were totally submerged. It took years to dig through the sand to clear the complex and find the temple. When they did, they named the find after the boy who led them there, calling it Abu Simbel.
Six rock temples were built in the area during Ramesses II’s long reign. Some say Abu Simbel temple, which took 20 years to build, is the most beautiful of all the temples the pharaoh commissioned; the grand temple complex of Karnak also being one he had a hand in. Unlike its neighbor downstream in Luxor though, this temple wasn’t meant to just mark his victory in battle or give praise to gods like Ptah and Amun. Ab Simbel temple was also meant to intimidate the nearby neighbors to the south in Nubia.
Abu Simbel isn’t just a marvel of design and construction from the days of the New Kingdom, it is also one of modern engineering. Starting in 1964, the temples were moved in their entirety from danger as the Aswan Dam was built on the Nile River to create a massive reservoir. Had it been left, the waters would’ve covered it as the sands once did. Instead it now sits safely 656 feet (200 meters) away on the bank. This was done by cutting the hills into huge blocks, up to 30 tons in weight, and carefully moving them to safety.
Egypt's Abu Simbel temple has prominently been displayed in pop culture, most notably the Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me,” as well as “The Mummy Returns” and “Star Wars Episode One,” but at its best it is an experience to be savored due to its surreal ancient history. Tourists and travelers now venture to the site and stand in awe of an impressive display, especially of Ramesses II’s ego, that shouldn’t be missed. Abu Simbel temple is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the “Nubian Monuments,” and it’s obvious why when taking in this complex.
A legend tells that over 2,000 years later a local boy guided explorers to the site. It was almost completely covered in sand at this point, having fallen into disuse as many ancient Egyptian temples did, with only the top of the main temple visible. The four massive statues of Ramesses II, sitting tall at 66 feet (20 meters), which guard the entrance to the main temple were totally submerged. It took years to dig through the sand to clear the complex and find the temple. When they did, they named the find after the boy who led them there, calling it Abu Simbel.
Six rock temples were built in the area during Ramesses II’s long reign. Some say Abu Simbel temple, which took 20 years to build, is the most beautiful of all the temples the pharaoh commissioned; the grand temple complex of Karnak also being one he had a hand in. Unlike its neighbor downstream in Luxor though, this temple wasn’t meant to just mark his victory in battle or give praise to gods like Ptah and Amun. Ab Simbel temple was also meant to intimidate the nearby neighbors to the south in Nubia.
Abu Simbel isn’t just a marvel of design and construction from the days of the New Kingdom, it is also one of modern engineering. Starting in 1964, the temples were moved in their entirety from danger as the Aswan Dam was built on the Nile River to create a massive reservoir. Had it been left, the waters would’ve covered it as the sands once did. Instead it now sits safely 656 feet (200 meters) away on the bank. This was done by cutting the hills into huge blocks, up to 30 tons in weight, and carefully moving them to safety.
Egypt's Abu Simbel temple has prominently been displayed in pop culture, most notably the Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me,” as well as “The Mummy Returns” and “Star Wars Episode One,” but at its best it is an experience to be savored due to its surreal ancient history. Tourists and travelers now venture to the site and stand in awe of an impressive display, especially of Ramesses II’s ego, that shouldn’t be missed. Abu Simbel temple is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the “Nubian Monuments,” and it’s obvious why when taking in this complex.
When to Go to Abu Simbel
On two particular days of the year February 22 and October 22, the sun dispels the darkness that typically covers the inside of Abu Simbel, illuminating the statues and carving of the temple's inner sanctum. It is said that these days correspond with pharaoh Ramses II birthday and coronation, but the validity of this has never been proven.
Odds n' Ends
The heat can be difficult to handle much of the time in Egypt, so plan ahead and bring something with you to drink. Also, make sure to dress appropriately. While shorts may not be socially or religiously acceptable, particularly for women, loose clothing that reflects light will help combat the heat.
Also, make sure to have plenty of small bills easily accessible in your pockets for baksheesh, or tips. Many Egyptians work off tips by showing tourists different things at such sites, like Abu Simbel. It's considered socially unacceptable and rude if you don't tip them for their efforts.
Also, make sure to have plenty of small bills easily accessible in your pockets for baksheesh, or tips. Many Egyptians work off tips by showing tourists different things at such sites, like Abu Simbel. It's considered socially unacceptable and rude if you don't tip them for their efforts.
Places to Stay Nearby
Search over 900,000 global hotel deals from over 30 merchants. Book via Expedia, Travelocity, Hotels.com, Booking.com, Priceline and the websites of popular hotel chains.
With its central location, Nefertari Abu Simbel Hotel is within easy reach of most tourist attractions and business addresses in Abu Simbel. With the guests' ... 0 miles away
$730 EGP+
A very good hotel in the fantastic valley of Abu Simble. The property is spread over a large area consisting of a separate reception area, ... 2 miles away
$673 EGP+
More Experiences Nearby
- Felucca Down the Nile Under the Shadows of the Great Pyramids of Egypt
- A cruise down the Nile on a traditional Egyptian felucca (small wooded boat) is a treat that should not be missed in a country awash in historical fortunes. It is quintessential Egypt. Skimming across the surface of the Nile River as the sun sets over the Sahara Desert can create a perfect end to a day full of interesting experiences. The father of modern history, Herodotus, said that Ancient Egypt was the gift of the Nile. Without it, the fertile strip of land that runs through the heart of the country would probably be as dry as the Sahara Desert ...146 miles away.
Carpe Diem! Book to do this experience now!
On the short walk to the temple entrances, your guide will explain the history of the site, including details of the UNESCO-led relocation of the ...
Starting from $99.00 per person.
Starting from $99.00 per person.
Books and DVDs
Elsewhere on the Web
Media References
- Revamping Nubian Monuments - Ahram.org (newspaper)
- In the company of scholars - Ahram.org (newspaper)
- Sun to Illuminate Inner Sanctuary of Pharaoh's Temple - NationalGeographic.com (magazine)
- SAILING ALONG THE NILE - NYTimes.com (newspaper)
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