Ancient Egypt & the Nile Valley

Great Temple of Abu Simbel, Statues of Ramesses II, Figures of Nefertari

Great Temple of Abu Simbel, Statues of Ramesses II, Figures of Nefertari

Iconic site with colossal statues, intricate carvings, and relocated temples, showcasing ancient Egyptian artistry and modern engineering marvels.
The Great Temple of Abu Simbel is an iconic archaeological site located in southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan. Carved into a mountainside, the temple is renowned for its colossal statues of Pharaoh Ramesses II, which stand guard at the entrance, each towering over 20 meters high. Inside, the temple features intricate carvings and hieroglyphics that celebrate Ramesses II's military victories and divine status. Adjacent to the Great Temple is a smaller temple dedicated to Ramesses' wife, Queen Nefertari, adorned with statues and reliefs that honor her and the goddess Hathor. Originally constructed in the 13th century BCE, the temples were relocated in the 1960s to prevent them from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser following the construction of the Aswan High Dam, a remarkable feat of modern engineering and preservation.