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Abu Simbel was built on the Southern end of Ramesses' (c.1279-c.1213BC) kingdom. It was built, as a warning to the Nubians and others, that this is where Egypt begins. It was also built to try to win over those who would do harm to Egypt.

 The view, as we round the corner, at Abu Simbel. WOW!! There are 4 -65 foot high statues of the deified Ramesses II.

 The smaller figures under Ramesses' feet, are his enemies, Nubians on the left, and Hitittes and Libyans on the right. The figures, around his feet, are some of his many children. At the very top of the East facing facade, are baboons, heralding the rising sun.

The upper portion of the second statue fell after a severe earthquake, in the 31st year of Ramesses' reign. It was decided to leave it where it fell, rather than restore it, when the site was moved.

   Since tour guides are not allowed to give tours inside many sites in Egypt (they tend to back up the large crowds), Amr instructs us on what to look for when we enter the temple. He explains the panels with the battle of Qadesh and what to look for on other various panels, and their locations.

   Marilyn, for scale. Notice the toes of Ramesses' collossal statue above Marilyn's head.

    Larry's favorite wife, Marilyn, as Nafertari.

  Our friends, with Lake Nasser, in the background.

  The Temple of Ramesses II, celebrates his worshipping the gods and his military exploits.

A panel illustrating the Battle of Qadesh, (1724 BC). the panel shows the preparation for battle and the battle itself. Ramesses takes on the entire Hititte army, as he charges ahead, on his chariot.

  Ramesses slaying the enemy.

On Feb. 21st and Oct.21st, the sunlight hits the Sanctuary and lights up the statues of Amun-Re, Re-Horakhty, Ptah, and the diefied Ramesses.

  The adjacent Temple of Horus and Nefertari (Ramesses' favorite wife).

  It was rather warm, for January, so we took a break under a scarce shade tree.

   We're standing in front of the two temples. Ramesses' temples is to the left and Nefertari's is to the right.

  The view from the back, showing the mountain constructed behind the colossal statues at Abu Simbel.