The solar alignment at Abu Simbel is one of the most anticipated events of the tourist year for those who visit these temples on the banks of Lake Nasser. And, as expected,
When Does the Solar Alignment at Abu Simbel Occur?
The solar alignment at Abu Simbel occurs only twice a year. Specifically,
It should be said that, when these temples were finished, promoted by the pharaoh Ramses II (19th dynasty, 13th century BC), the solar alignment at Abu Simbel occurred one day earlier: on February 21st and October 21st. This is because the temples were originally built at a lower altitude, next to the Nile River. But the construction of Lake Nasser in the mid-20th century led to these monuments being moved to a higher elevation, which forced a search for a solar effect as similar as possible.
The original dates of February 21st and October 21st could hide a great meaning: many Egyptologists believe that these are two very important dates for Ramses II. February 21st, 1303 BC could be the day of his birth, while October 21st, 1279 BC could be the day of his coronation as pharaoh.
What it is and why it Occurs
The solar alignment at Abu Simbel means that the first rays of the day enter through the long corridor of the Great Temple, about 60 meters long, and fully illuminate three of the four seated sculptures in the chamber: that of Pharaoh Ramses II, that of Ra (god of the sun), and that of Amun (of health, but also associated with the sun during the New Kingdom). And the statue of the god Ptah, which is precisely the divinity of the underworld, thus associated with darkness, always remains in the shadows.
The sun’s rays thus indicate, on two key dates, who were the protagonists on earth and in the sky in that period, considered one of the most prosperous of Ancient Egypt, precisely after the famous battle of Qadesh against the Hittites of Asia Minor, which guaranteed Pharaonic supremacy throughout its territory, including the Nubian.
How to See the Alignment
To see the solar alignment at Abu Simbel, you have to go to the temples at the mentioned specific times and dates. It should be said that the congregation of people at that time is very high, and it is expected to continue increasing as tourism grows and this phenomenon becomes more well-known.
So far, no special capacity measures have had to be taken, as it is understood that its long duration (more than twenty minutes) allows all the visitors gathered here to enter in an orderly manner and briefly contemplate the light, while photographing it.
However, it cannot be ruled out that the authorities will take measures if adequate contemplation of the phenomenon cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, we recommend that you contact our experts to find out if there is any special condition to visit the temples in the coming days of February 22nd or October 22nd.
