Small Temple of Abu Simbel

The Small Temple of Abu Simbel features six statues at its entrance, depicting Ramesses II and his wife Nefertari at equal heights of 10.5 meters.

Constructed during the reign of Ramesses II around 1264 BCE, this temple was carved into the mountain to honor Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor.

This temple marked a departure from traditional Egyptian architecture by portraying the queen at the same size as the pharaoh, indicating her elevated status.

The temple complex opens daily from sunrise to sunset, with guided tours available in multiple languages through the visitor center at Abu Simbel.

Engineers relocated the entire temple structure 65 meters higher in 1968 to prevent its submersion during the creation of Lake Nasser.

Location: Aswan Governorate

Part of: Temples of Abu Simbel

GPS coordinates: 22.33738,31.62705

Latest update: May 16, 2025 15:02