Sun Festival at Abu Simbel

October 16, 2011 - The biannual Sun Festival at the Temple of Ramses II in Abu Simbel occurs this upcoming Saturday, October 22.

Thousands of travelers from all over the world travel to Egypt for this event that takes place in October and February of each year. On these two particular days, we find that Ramses II carefully had his temple at Abu Simbel constructed in such a way that the inner sanctum lights up with the sun's rays only on these two days in the year. Amazingly, it is only the inner sanctum that lights up while the statue of Ptah, god of darkness, stays under the cover of darkness. It is said that the two days in which this occurs mark the birthday and coronation day of Ramses II.

One can attend the celebration that occurs outside the temple with music and a fair after viewing the fantastic spectacle. It is an amazing experience that is not to be missed.