The great Temple Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel, an ancient temple complex hewn from solid rock, lies nestled in the southern reaches of Egypt. Gracing the banks of the Nile River’s second cataract. Its genesis back to the illustrious reign of Ramses’ II.
A formidable leader who held sway from approximately 1279 to 1213 BCE.
The precise timeframe of its construction, however, remains shrouded in scholarly debate. Owing to the divergent interpretations surrounding the life and times of Ramesses II. Yet, within the resplendent confines of the Great Temple, adorned with an abundance of mesmerizing artwork. A palpable purpose emerges – a grand commemoration of Ramesses’ triumphant campaign against the Hittites at the Battle of Kadesh in 1274 BCE. Some erudite minds, though, continue to grapple with this enigmatic chronicle.
The likely date of the initial construction of the grand monument can be traced back to 1264 BCE. Although it would have been a vivid memory for the people following their recent victory. Nevertheless, some scholars argue that the decision to build such a majestic structure precisely on the border with the conquered lands of Nubia points to a later date of 1244 BCE.
This reasoning is based on the fact that the monument would have had to be initiated after Ramesses II’s successful Nubian Campaigns. Which he conducted alongside his sons, serving as a powerful symbol of Egypt’s dominance.
Lifestyle of the ancient Yoruba people
Abu Simbel brief history
Regardless of when construction started, it is widely accepted that it took two decades to build the complex. The temples within the complex are dedicated to the gods Ra-Horakty, Ptah, and the deified Ramesses II (known as The Great Temple) and the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari, Ramesses II’s beloved wife (known as The Small Temple).
Although it is commonly assumed that the name “Abu Simbel” was its original designation, this is not the case. Supposedly, a Swiss explorer named Burckhardt was guided to the site by a boy named Abu Simbel in 1813 CE, leading to the site being named after him. However, Burckhardt was unable to uncover the buried site, which was covered in sand up to the grand colossi’s necks. He later recounted this experience to his friend and fellow explorer Giovanni Belzoni. In 1817 CE, it was Belzoni who successfully excavated (or perhaps looted) Abu Simbel, and it is likely that he, not Burckhardt, was guided by the young boy and gave the complex its name.
The truth behind both versions of the story, including the original name of the complex, remains uncertain and lost to history.
The Two Great Temples Abu simbel
Passing through the imposing colossi and entering the temple, one is greeted by a mesmerizing interior adorned with engravings. These engravings depict scenes of Ramesses and his beloved Nefertari paying homage to the gods, a testament to their devotion and piety. Additionally, the north wall of the Hypostyle Hall is adorned with detailed depictions of Ramesses’ great victory at Kadesh.
A battle that modern scholars now view as more of a stalemate than a resounding triumph for the Egyptians.
In these engravings, the events surrounding the battle are meticulously portrayed, capturing the essence of Ramesses’ military prowess and strategic genius. As described by esteemed scholars Oakes and Gahlin.
The engravings within the temple provide a vivid narrative of the battle, immersing the viewer in the triumphs and challenges faced by Ramesses II.
In the presence of towering colossi and intricate engravings, the Great Temple stands as a testament to the mighty and power of Ramesses II. Standing at an impressive height of 98 feet. With four colossal statues of the pharaoh flanking its entrance, the temple commands awe and reverence.
These statues, each standing at a towering height of 65 feet, depict Ramesses II seated on his throne. A symbol of his authority and grandeur. Adorned with smaller statues depicting his conquered enemies, including the Nubians, Libyans, and Hittites. And also the representations of his family members and protective deities, the temple embodies Ramesses’ dominion and divine favor.
The sacred site
The site held great significance to Hathor even before the temples were constructed there. This is widely believed that Ramesses deliberately chose this location due to its sacredness.
In both temples, Ramesses is revered as a god alongside other deities. and his decision to utilize an already holy site would have further solidified this perception among the population.
Additionally, both temples are oriented towards the east, allowing the sun to directly illuminate the statues of Ramesses and Amun within the sanctuary on two specific dates: February 21st and october 21st. These dates are believed to correspond to Ramesses’ birthday and coronation.
The practice of aligning sacred structures with the rising or setting sun, or with the sun’s position during the solstices. This was widespread in ancient civilizations (notably observed at New Grange in Ireland and Maeshowe in Scotland).
However, The Great Temple’s sanctuary differs from these other sites in that the statue of the god Ptah, who stands alongside the others, is deliberately positioned to remain in perpetual darkness. This is because Ptah was associated with the Egyptian underworld.
The great Temple Abu Simbel
The High Dam in Aswan
In the 1960s, during the modern era, the Egyptian government embarked on an ambitious project to construct the Aswan High Dam along the Nile River.
This monumental endeavor would have resulted in the submergence of significant cultural landmarks. Which includes the revered temples, such as the Temple of Philae.
However, between the years 1964 and 1968, a remarkable feat was accomplished whereby the temples were painstakingly dismantled. But relocated a staggering 213 feet (65 meters) higher onto the majestic cliffs that once cradled them. Positioned 690 feet (210 meters) northwest of their original placement. This awe-inspiring venture was meticulously orchestrated by a multinational team of archaeologists. Conducted under the auspices of UNESCO.
The financial investment in this endeavor exceeded a staggering 40 million US dollars, reflecting the paramount importance placed on preserving Egypt’s rich heritage. Every effort was made to ensure the temples retained their original orientation. Meanwhile a man-made mountain was erected to emulate the impression of the temples emerging from the rocky precipice.
As documented by esteemed scholars Oakes and Gahlin. “This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to mankind’s commitment to safeguarding our shared cultural legacy”.
The smaller statues and stelae that once adorned the original site of the complex were meticulously relocated to their respective locations near the temples.
High Dam in Aswan as a site
Among these precious artifacts are stelae showcasing the triumphant victories of Ramesses over his adversaries, representations of various deities. And a remarkable stele capturing the sacred union between Ramesses and the Hittite princess Naptera. A moment that solidified the Treaty of Kadesh.
Notably, the Stele of Asha-hebsed stands proudly among these monuments. Commemorating leader who skillfully organized the workforce responsible for constructing this grand complex.
It eloquently recounts Ramesses’ unwavering desire to erect a testament to his everlasting glory. And his decision to entrust this monumental task to Asha-hebsed.
Today, The Great Abu Simbel stands as one of Egypt’s most revered ancient sites, second to the Pyramids of Giza.
It even boasts its own airport, ensuring the smooth arrival of thousands of eager tourists each year.
The great Temple Abu Simbel
