Egyptian Structures > Temple of Ramesses II

Temple of Ramesses II

Background

The Temple of Ramesses II, commonly known as the Great Temple of Abu Simbel, is one of the most iconic and impressive monuments of ancient Egypt. It is located in Nubia, near the modern border with Sudan, on the west bank of Lake Nasser. Here are the key details about the Temple of Ramesses II:

Historical Background

• Construction Period: The temple was constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II (c. 1279–1213 BCE) of the 19th Dynasty. It is part of a larger complex of two temples, with the smaller temple dedicated to his wife, Queen Nefertari.
• Purpose: The temple was built to commemorate Ramesses II's victory at the Battle of Kadesh and to demonstrate his divine status and power. It also served to impress and intimidate the Nubian population and reinforce Egyptian control over the region.

Architectural Features

• Facade: The temple's facade is dominated by four colossal statues of Ramesses II, each approximately 20 meters (66 feet) high. These statues are seated and depict the pharaoh in a traditional pose, wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt.
• Entrance: The entrance is located between the legs of the central statues and leads into the interior of the temple.

Interior Layout

• Hypostyle Hall: The first hall inside the temple is the hypostyle hall, which contains eight large pillars depicting Ramesses II as Osiris, the god of the afterlife. The walls are adorned with reliefs showing scenes of the pharaoh's military victories, including the Battle of Kadesh.
• Second Hall: Beyond the hypostyle hall is a smaller hall, also lined with pillars, that leads to the inner sanctum.
• Sanctuary: The innermost part of the temple is the sanctuary, which houses four seated statues: those of Amun, Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and a deified Ramesses II. The sanctuary is aligned so that twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, the sun's rays penetrate the temple and illuminate the statues, except for Ptah, the god of the underworld.

Artistic and Religious Significance

• Reliefs and Inscriptions: The walls of the temple are covered with elaborate reliefs and inscriptions that glorify Ramesses II, depict his divine birth, and illustrate his military prowess. The artistry and craftsmanship of these reliefs are remarkable and provide valuable insights into the religious and cultural beliefs of the time.
• Solar Alignment: The biannual solar alignment that illuminates the statues in the sanctuary is a testament to the advanced understanding of astronomy and engineering possessed by the ancient Egyptians.

Relocation

• Threat from Aswan High Dam: In the 1960s, the construction of the Aswan High Dam and the creation of Lake Nasser threatened to submerge the temple.
• UNESCO Campaign: An international campaign led by UNESCO successfully relocated the temple to a higher location. The entire complex was dismantled and reassembled 65 meters (213 feet) above its original site and 200 meters (656 feet) back from the river.
• Preservation: The relocation effort preserved the temple for future generations and is considered one of the greatest archaeological engineering achievements of the 20th century.

Tourism and Legacy

• Tourist Attraction: The Great Temple of Abu Simbel is one of Egypt's most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its grandeur and historical significance.
• Cultural Impact: The temple stands as a symbol of Ramesses II's legacy and the enduring power of ancient Egyptian civilization. Its impressive architecture and artistic achievements continue to inspire awe and admiration.

Smaller Temple of Abu Simbel

• Dedicated to Nefertari: Adjacent to the Great Temple is the Smaller Temple of Abu Simbel, dedicated to Ramesses II's beloved wife, Queen Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor.
• Statues and Reliefs: The facade features six statues, four of Ramesses II and two of Nefertari, each standing about 10 meters (33 feet) high. The interior is similarly decorated with reliefs and inscriptions honoring Nefertari and the deities.

The Temple of Ramesses II at Abu Simbel remains a testament to the grandeur and ingenuity of ancient Egyptian architecture, highlighting the pharaoh's legacy and the remarkable achievements of his reign.