🏛️ Abu Simbel: The Temple That Moved a Mountain
If there is one place in Egypt that competes with the Pyramids for “wow” factor, it’s Abu Simbel.
Carved directly into a sandstone cliff over 3,000 years ago by Ramses II, these two temples weren’t just built for worship—they were built as a warning. Positioned on the southern border, they told everyone entering Egypt from Africa: “Ramses is a god, and his power is absolute.”
1. The Great Miracle of 1968
In the 1960s, these temples were almost lost forever. The construction of the Aswan High Dam created Lake Nasser, which would have submerged Abu Simbel completely.
- The Rescue: In a feat of modern engineering as impressive as the ancient one, UNESCO dismantled the entire site.
- The Puzzle: They cut the temples into 2,000 massive blocks (some weighing 30 tons) and moved them 65 meters higher up the cliff.
- The Result: They rebuilt the “mountain” so perfectly that you can barely see the seams today.
2. The Love Story: Ramses & Nefertari
Most pharaohs built temples to themselves. Ramses II built a second, smaller temple for his favorite wife, Queen Nefertari.
- The Equality: In a rare move for ancient Egypt, the statues of Nefertari on the facade are the same height as Ramses. This was his way of showing the world she was his equal in his heart.
📅 The Sun Festival 2026
Ancient Egyptian astronomers were geniuses. They aligned the Great Temple so that twice a year, the sun’s rays shine 60 meters deep into the sanctuary to light up the statues of the gods.
- The 2026 Dates: February 22nd and October 22nd.
- Pro-Tip: If you visit during the festival, expect huge crowds and a carnival atmosphere with Nubian dancing and music.
🚐 Survival Guide: Getting There from Aswan
Abu Simbel is roughly 3 hours south of Aswan in the middle of the Sahara.
💡 Andy’s Insider Tips:
- The “Breakfast Box”: If you’re taking the 4 AM bus, ask your Aswan hotel the night before for a “Breakfast Box.” They all do it for free!
- Student ID (ISIC): Just like the rest of Egypt, students get 50% off entry. In 2026, the adult ticket is around 600 EGP (check local rates as they fluctuate).
- The Buggy: It’s a bit of a walk from the ticket office to the temples in the heat. There are electric golf buggies available for a small fee if you want to save your legs for the actual exploring.