Egypt: Abu Simbel Temples

Abu Simbel Temples are the most spectacular of all in Egypt. Located in Abu Simbel, just 50km north of Sudanese border, the two temples were moved here from lower elevations when lake Nasser was created with the High Dam in Aswan. Originally, the temples were carved into a mountainside (like in Petra), and two artificial mountains were built to replicate this. The temples are truly magnificent, built by Ramses II to commemorate his military victories as well as his Queen Nefertari. The twin temples have giant statues, inside and out, massive decorated chambers, and detailed and well preserved reliefs and paintings. Most tourists come here by long bus trips for a few hours of crowded mob-like exploration. But if you stay in Abu Simbel – you can have the temples all to yourself at sunrise!