On the list of well-known sites to visit in Egypt, Abu Simbel is near the top, likely only surpassed by Giza and the temple complexes in Luxor. It has been at the top of my list for a long time, and I can tell you that it lives up to its well-earned reputation. The entire story of this complex and its rescue from the impact of the Aswan High Dam is spell-binding!

Here’s an interior view of the Ramses II temple at the site…

Inside the Temple

The scale and detail inside the temple are stunning! There is amazing detail to be found everywhere to speak of the great deeds of Ramses II.

Even more interesting to me is the temple dedicated to Ramses II’s favorite queen, Nefertari…

Nefertari’s Temple

The scale is almost at that of Ramses’ temple, and the stories told inside this temple are even more interesting!

Overall, our visit here was enhanced by the fact that we nearly. had this amazing site to ourselves, so we could admire the incredible work done to save this temple complex from Lake Nasser.

Just a taste for today, as I’ll write some more detailed blog posts in future editions!

2 responses

  1. Did you know that the thank you (temple of Taffeh) for the support by The Netherlands in moving the Abu Simbel can be found in the National Antiqities Museum in Leiden? As well as a wonderful collection of Egypt and Numibian treasures? https://www.rmo.nl/en/collection/highlights-collection/temple-of-taffeh/

    1. Great point! I had forgotten about the temple. I do remember the UNESCO collection during my elementary school time for this project.

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