Definition: Abu Simbel is a temple built by Ramesses II (Pharaoh of the 19th Dynasty of the New Kingdom, who ruled 1279-1213 BC) in Nubia, what is now in Egypt near the border of Sudan. It was investigated by James Breasted at Chicago's Oriental Institute. Originally carved into and out of the sandstone cliffs of the Nile River, the site was threatened in the 1960s when the Aswan Dam was proposed; and in an amazing feat of engineering technology, the temple was cut out of the rock, lifted above the floodplain, and rebuilt in an appropriate location for preservation.
Be sure to try your hand at the Trivia Quiz on Abu Simbel.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Be sure to try your hand at the Trivia Quiz on Abu Simbel.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
