Customer Reviews

The Mysteries of Abu Simbel: Ramesses II and the Temples of the Rising Sun

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The book by Zahi Hawass has a lot of information packed into it which I was surprised for such a small (88 pgs) book. It covers the history of Seti I- Rameses II dynasty, the UNESCO project to protect the Nubian monuments in the 1960s. The Aswan High Dam, the temples given away and where they are today. What was moved - to where. Even the Nubian Museum which opened about 10 years ago. Many books were written on this topic before the work was done, it is good to find one that elaborates exactly what WAS done as opposed to advancing theories. Excellent book.

This book is an introduction about Nubia, the region where Abu Simbel is located. The author describes and discusses the High Dam and the Unesco campaign to save the temples; he provides details concerning the Sound And Light project. He then provides a brief summary of Ramses II's life and family. Various sections of Nubian temples are briefly described. Hawass also discusses the architecture of two beautiful rock-cut temples, and examines scenes covering walls. Maps, plans, illustrations and color photographs complete this useful and enjoyable guide, recommended for everyone.

..... The world's top Egyptologist takes you to the most exciting temple in Egypt !!
..... Ever since my first trip to Egypt in 1985, Abu Simbal has been my favorite place. The huge temples carved out of the mountainside, (which were moved when the Aswan High Dam was built), are incredable works of art and architecture.
..... This book aptly illustrates the beauty of the 60 - foot states of Rameses the Great, and his beloved wife, Nefertari...and Dr. Zahi Hawass brings to life the stories depicted in the carvings inside the temples.
..... There are also the photos of the 4 statues in the sanctuary of the larger temple, which are illuminated by the rising sun twice a year....... Dr. Hawass, the Director of the Egyptian Antiquities Department, brilliantly captures the wonder of this event in this book.
..... If you can't get to Egypt, and Abu Simbal, in person, this book is the next best thing.

I expected more, but this is a small, short book with not a lot of details of the site. Dr Hawass writes great books, but this is not one of his best, just ok.It could be better if the book was larger, with more photos and details of the site.