The festival takes place twice a year, in February and October, in celebration of Ramses II’s birthday. When Ramses II built his temple he carefully positioned it so that on his birthday and during the sun solstices the inner sanctum would become lit, the rising sun gradually illuminating the statues of Ramses, Ra and Amun, while the god of darkness, Ptah, remains in shadow. Before sunrise the temple becomes packed with people waiting to witness the spectacular show. The outside celebrations include music, dancing, markets, and food and drink stalls.
Region/City Name:
The Nile Valley
Event Date:
October 22, 2010
Venue:
The Temple of Abu Simbel
Event Time:
Sunrise
Date Text:
22 February and 22 October 2011
