Abu Simbel

  The stunning site of Abu Simbel is located 282 km. (175 miles) south of Aswan on the west bank of the Nile River. Its two impressive stone temples were constructed during the reign of Ramses II (1304-1237 BC). 
  The temple consists of four colossal statues of Ramses, which  measure about 20 m (65 ft) high and are carved on the facade of the larger temple. There is also  a smaller temple upon which there are four other statues, about 10 m (33 ft) high, and two statues of Ramses principal queen, Nefertari.
  Numerous rooms in the larger temple are painted with stories of particular eras. Reliefs of the king performing religious and warlike ceremonies adorn the rooms as well. 
  Intricately carved and decorated religious scenes fill the smaller temple also. The rooms are very hot and humid, and even the most dedicated afficianado of Egyptian archaeology will herald the sight of the refreshment carts in the courtyard with a certain glee!
  Today, Abu Simbel is almost as famous for its reconstruction as it is for its historical significance. When the Aswan High Dam was built and Lake Nasser created, the temples were moved to higher ground above the original site. It required unbelievable effort and some $40 million dollars to complete the project. If you can get someone to show you the way inside behind the temple and its statues, it's amazing to see how the whole site was built into its current wall.