Abu Simbel Sun Festival: Everything You Need To Know
Every year, thousands gather in Egypt to witness the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, where ancient temples align with the sunrise in a spectacular event honoring Ramses II. The sun’s rays penetrated the temple hall 60 meters to the Holy of Holies and lasted for 20 minutes. Moreover, this is what the tourist city of Aswan witnessed on the 22nd of October. Tuesday, the phenomenon of the sun’s rays falling on the face of King Ramses II is known as the Abu Simbel Sun Festival). Furthermore, in the presence of thousands of tourists from all over the world.
Travel to Egypt’s beautiful southern landscape, where the dunes of the Nubian desert meet the sky. The great temple complex known as Abu Simbel is located there. This site of significant proportions and exceptional artistry was composed under the regal authority of Ramses II, otherwise referred to as Ramses the Great. He is famous for the massive stone sculptures and their accompanying hieroglyphs, which tell of the Great Ramses. Meanwhile, there is something that Abu Simbel seems to hide – the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, a unique event that occurs when the solar system aligns so that the inner chamber of the Great Temple is lit twice a year. This incredible event occurs annually on February 22 and October 22.
In this short topic, we will answer all your questions so you can experience the joy of this great event.
1. History Behind the Abu Simbel Temples and Ramses II
Abu Simbel is one of the most popular places in Egypt to visit, especially during a tour or a special event, such as the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, which takes place in February and is a great reason to travel to the region. The magnificent temples were built on the extreme southern part of the kingdom of Pharaoh Ramesses II, who reigned during the 13th century BC. In fact, he specifically wanted them to be built as a border to Egypt and to respect the visitors coming in, especially himself, creating fear in the hearts of those crossing his borders. His military ambitions succeeded, and this temple has been used to show his strength. Visitors can explore the temples over several days, taking in the grandeur of the structures and learning about the region’s history, particularly in Aswan.
The Two Temples of Abu Simbel
The temples of Abu Simbel are considered monuments of the great king Ramesses II and his chief wife Nefertari, but most temples were aimed at worshiping deities. A vast and impressive temple with a relief of four giant seated Ramesses statues in the front of the temple is devoted to Amun, Ptah, and Re-Harakty. The second, ‘smaller’ temple, still considered a massive structure, contributes to Ramesses’ most loved wife, Nefertari, and is devoted to goddess Hathor. Travelers to Aswan, Egypt, often include a visit to Abu Simbel in their tour itinerary.
The second temple’s facade features six heroic carvings, four of Ramesses and two of Nefertari. This temple is distinguished from others by the fact that Nefertari is depicted as occupying the same plane as the pharaoh himself, demonstrating the importance Ramesses placed on their relationship, and it’s a great event to see the sun shining on the temple during the Abu Simbel Sun Festival help you understand the significance of the temple.
2. Traveling to Abu Simbel: Tips and Transportation
Firstly, getting to Abu Simbel is not a big deal. As a country, Egypt provides simple and affordable transportation to Abu Simbel. Moreover, we will give you the best and easiest way to get to the temple. The temples are situated in the southernmost part of Egypt, near the border with Sudan. The most accessible means of visiting these temples is taking a thirty-minute flight to Aswan and then connecting to Abu Simbel by air.
The other alternative is to take a car and drive through the dunes, which is approximately a three-hour drive from Aswan. Those fond of the water can always cruise on the lake, situated around the temple area, offering another pleasant way of getting to the temples. Many visitors plan their tour to coincide with the unique Sun Festival at Abu Simbel, which occurs on specific days each year and is a remarkable event. In all cases, travel to the site offers breathtaking views and prepares the mind and body for the awe-inspiring experience of these mouthwatering temples.
3. What is the Sun Festival in Abu Simbel, and Story Behind it
The Sun Festival at Abu Simbel is an annual event on the same days each year, February 22nd and October 22nd. It is characterized by the Sun rays penetrating the inner sanctuary of the Great Temple of Abu Simbel and shining on the deities’ sculptures inside, making it a popular travel and tour destination in Aswan, Egypt.
Here’s what happens:
- On these two days, the sun’s rays pass through the temple entrance and travel 200 feet (60 meters) to the innermost chamber.
- The rays illuminate the statues of Amun, Re-Harakhti, and Ramses II, but not the god of darkness, Ptah, who remains in the shadows.
- This alignment is believed to symbolize the union of the divine and the earthly realms. Ancient architects thought it was intentionally designed to coincide with the birthdays of Ramses II and the Egyptian god Ra.
The Sun Festival is a unique and awe-inspiring event that attracts visitors from around the world. It’s a testament to the ingenuity and astronomical knowledge of the ancient Egyptians and a reminder of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.
4. Why is Abu Simbel so Special
Abu Simbel feels special because it’s not just a place—it’s a testament to human ambition, love, and creativity. Moreover, picture Ramesses II, a powerful ruler and a man who wanted to immortalize himself, his gods, and his beloved wife, Nefertari, in these stunning temples. He didn’t just build for power; he built to inspire, to tell a story. What’s even more fascinating is how these massive temples were saved in the 1960s, moved piece by piece to protect them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Imagine that: thousands of years after they were built, people came together to save them. Furthermore, visiting Abu Simbel isn’t just about seeing ancient stone; it’s about feeling the heart, effort, and love that have kept these temples alive for centuries.
5. Is Abu Simbel Sun Festival Worth It
The Abu Simbel Sun Festival is one of a kind. Picture yourself in the morning, all calm and composed and waiting for the sun to rise over the temple only to find that the temple captures the sun in a way that the statues of Ramesses the Second and the gods are illuminated – it is so beautiful that it seems unbelievable. The fact that it takes place in February and October makes it awesome.
It’s like the ancient Egyptians built the temple in such detail to allow us this unforgettable experience after many days. But it isn’t only about the sun aligning perfectly with the temple. This beautiful ambiance is filled with joyful people dancing, singing, and engaging in other cultural practices. It is as if you are seeing the past and in it. When you get to Egypt, the Sun Festival at Abu Simbel is one of those highlights that come very few. It even makes you wish to travel back in time, making it an unforgettable event and a must-see tour of Aswan, especially during the Abu Simbel Sun Festival.
6. What Days Does The Sun Shine in Abu Simbel
In a fleeting moment, the golden sunlight spreads across the magnificently built statues of the Egyptian god Ramses II and others, showcasing a wonder of ancient architecture, the Abu Simbel temple in Egypt at dawn. It is a moment that comes only twice every year, this one being October 22, the day marking the birth of one of the most accomplished and remembered Pharaohs of the land, and February 22, the day he withstood the ceremonial crown on his head. As though some unseen powers have descended within the temple, an unusually long beautiful ray of light that measures 60 meters stretches within the temple, expertly lighting up all of the statue’s faces apart from the face of Ptah, the god who resides within eternal darkness.
This phenomenon is part of the sun festival, a significant event that attracts many for a tour to witness this marvel. It is one of those experiences that has stirred the soul of everyone lucky enough to witness it, especially those who travel to Aswan to see it. It is a stunning display that animates the temple and marks the onset of the growing and harvesting seasons on these special days.
7. What to Wear During The Sun Festival in Egypt
Assuring comfort and adherence to local traditions is crucial when choosing the proper attire for the Sun Festival in Egypt. Since it is sweltering and arid, wearing light and breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, is preferable. At the same time, many cultures advocate for wearing loose, final repent, decent clothing, including long sleeves and trousers, to shield from the sun.
One would need a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses to protect parts of the face and eyes from the sun. Closed-toed shoes would be most suitable for walking around temple premises, while a light, decked coat shed or shawl can retain warmth in the cold mornings and evenings. When attending religious sites, dressing appropriately is encouraged. Thus, a light scarf can be applied to guard against the sun or cover the shoulders when necessary, especially for those who travel to Aswan for this special event at Abu Simbel.
