The Nile Valley Attractions
Temple of Hathor, Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel
The two temples of Abu Simbel, the Temple of Ramses II and the
temple of Hathor (the Sun God) dedicated to his wife Nefertari,
were cut out of the sandstone cliffs more than 3,000 years ago. Not
only are these temples among the most magnificent in the world, but
also their removal and reconstruction are recorded as a major
historical feat during the construction of the High Dam on Lake
Nasser. The monuments were threatened with submersion, and after an
appeal by UNESCO in co-operation with the Egyptian Government they
were dismantled and reassembled exactly, about 197ft (60m) higher
up. The intimidating sight that first greets the visitor is that of
the four colossal statues guarding the entrance to the Grand Hall
of the Temple of Ramses. The interior is highly decorated with
relief paintings and is supported by eight statues of Ramses acting
as giant pillars. Leading off the hall are painted sanctuaries and
chambers. The Temple of Hathor is smaller and simpler, also with
statues guarding the entrance and a manifestation of the Sun God
portrayed above. It is aligned in such a way that the sun's rays
reach inside to illuminate the statues of Ptah, Amun-Re, Ramesses
II, and Re- Horakhty twice a year.
Transport: Hotels in Aswan organise bus tours to the site;
Opening time: Daily 6am to 5pm (summer); 6am to 4pm (winter)
