Witness Abu Simbel And Learn About The Great Pharaoh Who Built It

Abu Simbel is one of the most recognizable sites among the ancient constructions of Egypt. It sat there on the west bank of the Nile for three thousand years. Its location was between the first and second cataracts of the blue river. Then, engineers spawned the idea of building the renowned Aswan High Dam. It is a remarkable fact in itself that engineers moved the temple for its place. Yes, they dismantled the temple and rebuilt it on higher ground. Soon after that, in 1960, the great Aswan High Dam came into existence. Here you will learn more about this mesmerizing shrine of Egypt. It is safe to say that Abu Simbel is a notable jewel among the gemstones attached to Egypt’s crown.

1.                Two temples: The temple of Abu Simbel consists of two individual constructions. Builders sculpted the two buildings from rocks. These temples came into existence during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in 1200 BC. One of the shrines is a dedication to Ramses II while the other is for Queen Nefertiti. The Abu Simbel show of Sound and Light Egypt will tell you more about Ramses and Nefertiti.

2.                While cruising: Many cruise ships include the Abu Simbel in their itineraries. You can see them from a distance. Some cruise trips also include a stop here. So, if you choose to explore Egypt on a cruise vessel, then select the right one. You must pay a fee to explore Abu Simbel, and you can’t carry cameras. However, it may not be possible for you to witness any Sound and Light Egypt show on a cruise tour.

3.                Nobody else: Polygamy was something popular in those days among the royal Egyptian people. In spite of that, Pharaoh Ramses II built a temple to honour Queen Nefertiti only. You can probably assume the fact that Nefertiti was the first and principal wife of Ramses. The king loved Nefertiti is more than all his other wives.

4.                Transportation: Now, you will find out what happened in 1964. Engineers dismantled the temple into several pieces. Then they transported the temples and reconstructed them far away from the swelling waters of Lake Nasser. Now the temples occupy a spot sixty-five meters above the original location. The distance between the temples and the shoreline two hundred meters.

5.                Artwork: Like most other Egyptian constructions, artwork and carvings cover the structures of Abu Simbel. It goes without saying that they are incredible in all aspects. The wall paintings, statues, hand carvings, and carved pillars are a feast for the eyes. They are also an immense source of knowledge for anyone who can read hieroglyphs.

A must-see

The temples of Abu Simbel are a must-see for all travellers. Egypt possesses a unique power to attract the minds and souls of people. Those who find Egyptian history interesting, rush towards these buildings like bees towards a flower. If you are one of them who wish to find out more about Egypt, then you must explore Abu Simbel. If possible, then you should include the sound and light show that takes place here every night. It will be both exciting and informative at the same time. Pharaoh Ramses II himself will explain to you the events that took place here a millennia ago.