Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel is a small town located on the shores of Lake Nassar, south of Aswan. It is famous primarily for two gigantic temples carved in the rock , in the thirteenth century BC, during the reign of Ramses the Great and his wife Nefertari. The construction took 20 years! But this should not come as a surprise to anyone, because the figures themselves decorating the entrance to the complex are 21 meters high.

Abu Simbel, Egypt - © Brate

Dedicated to the ancient Egyptian gods Amon, Ra-Horakhta and Ptah, and to Ramses himself, they are considered to this day as the most beautiful of the temples put into use during the reign of this particular ruler. However, for many centuries the complex was hidden from prying eyes, because it was swallowed up by the sands of the desert . Later, after discovery, the whole thing had to be moved as the area was flooded during the construction of the Aswan dam. This undertaking was possible with the support of international organizations. Thanks to this, you can go there to admire the beauty of the temples. A beauty that is under the protection of UNESCO .

For whom?

A visit to Abu Simbel is a real treat for fans of ancient Egypt . Although the place is quite famous, due to the long distance that has to be covered from Aswan or from typical resorts, there are probably no big crowds here . So you can count on a pleasant tour in an intimate atmosphere.