Abu Simbel

In all, Ramesses II constructed seven rock cut temples in Nubia – the most impressive of which were the twin temples at Abu Simbel. Originally built 65 metres below their current location, they occupied a site on the west bank of the Nile that had long been held sacred to the Egyptians. Cut entirely from the pink sandstone mountain, the main temple of Ramesses followed a highly dynamic plan. The architects took full advantage of the natural terrain at their disposal, carving four colossal seated images of the king, but leaving them engaged with the rock face. Each was considered to be the embodiment of a living being and, accordingly, was given its own name. The architecture of the main temple is replete with imagery that betrays its significance as a monument to commemorate the cult of the sun god. In fact, the temple honours Ramesses in his guise as the sun-god, Re.

The scale and magnificence of Nefertari’s temple is a demonstrable act of devotion by Ramesses towards his favourite queen. This act alone echoes the dedication by Amenophis III of a Nubian temple at Sedeinga in honour of his own principal wife, Queen Tiye. These were not funerary or memorial temples, prepared for the cults of these queens, but monuments to celebrate them whilst they were still alive. Nefertari’s pre-eminence amongst the royal harim of Ramesses is without question. The opulence of her tomb in the Valley of the Queens alone is testament to that! Throughout both temples at Abu Simbel, she is the queen who is, without fail, depicted officiating with her husband in the ritual ceremonies.

Date of Construction: 19th Dynasty, reign of Ramesses II (c. 1279 – 1212 B.C.)

Highlights:
Cutting-edge design of the rock-cut temples
Four Colossi of Ramesses II
Innovative portrayal of the Battle of Kadesh (interior of the main temple)
Sanctuary in honour of deified Ramesses and three pre-eminent national gods (Amen-re, Re-Horakhty and Ptah)

Your personal expert guide to Abu Simbel: £2.99

 

1. Ramesses II in Nubia - 5:20
2. The Main Temple of Ramesses II - 3:11
3. The Great Hall, The Battle of Kadesh - 1:22
4. The Second Hall - 1:01
5. The Sanctuary - 0:46
6. Introduction to the Temple of Nefertari - 1:55
7. The Temple Facade - 0:51
8. The Temple Interior - 1:16
9. The Battle of Kadesh - 4:03

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