Understand

Nestled 280 km south of Aswan and a mere 40 km from the Sudanese border, Abu Simbel is a quaint village brimming with historical treasures. Among its most renowned attractions are the splendid temples that have earned it widespread recognition. While the village may be small and unassuming, it offers a intriguing glimpse into ancient Egypt's grandeur. Only a handful of visitors choose to stay past a few hours, despite the existence of five hotels catering to those eager to savor the Temple's splendor under the starlit desert sky. Originally situated closer to the Nile, the temples underwent a daring relocation endeavor in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Each temple was carefully disassembled, stone by stone, and then meticulously relocated uphill. The Great Temple of Ramses II now stands majestically at the forefront of a man-made mountain, ingeniously crafted to mimic nature's design. No casual observer could discern that the seemingly solid rock hides the temple's true form. It is believed that the colossal statues adorning the Great Temple were strategically meant to intimidate potential adversaries approaching Egypt's southern region by boat. These imposing works of art, guarding the southern Nile, served as a stark warning to any foe attempting to invade from the depths of Africa. Yet, do not be disheartened by their smaller size and more rustic finish compared to the grandeur of Luxor or Karnak temples. The true gem lies in the engravings depicting the Battle of Kadash, the historic conflict between Rameses II and the Hittites, which ultimately led to the world's first recognized peace treaty. To fully appreciate this remarkable event, one must delve into the temple's intricately carved walls, revealing the unfolding scenes of this monumental battle.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Ful Medames - This traditional Egyptian dish consists of cooked fava beans simmered in a savory broth, often garnished with olive oil, chopped parsley, and spices. It's typically served with vegetables, flatbread, or rice, making it a filling and nutritious meal. The dish is usually vegetarian but can include chicken or lamb in some variations.

Koshari - A popular Egyptian street food, Koshari is a delicious mélange of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, tomato sauce, and fried onions. It's typically seasoned with vinegar, garlic, cumin, and other spices, and served hot. Some versions may also include slices of boiled egg or crispy potato chips. This vegetarian dish is known for its hearty and comforting flavors, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Molokhia - This traditional Egyptian soup is made from finely chopped jute leaves (also known as molokhiya) cooked in a blend of garlic, coriander, and lemon juice. It is typically served with a side of rice, bread, or grilled chicken, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices per taste. While the soup is mainly vegetarian, it can also include chicken stock or small pieces of meat in some variations.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing