Abu Simbel Temple experiences rare solar alignment

Hundreds of visitors gathered at Egypt’s Abu Simbel Temple to witness a rare solar alignment that illuminates the ancient sanctuary. This phenomenon occurs only twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, when the rising sun reaches deep into the Great Temple of Ramses II.

The sunlight travels into the inner chamber to light up three of the four statues: Pharaoh Ramses II, Amun-Ra, and Ra-Horakhty. The statue of the god Ptah remains in darkness, a detail tour guides note is significant because Ptah is considered the god of darkness.

The alignment lasts approximately 20 minutes. During the event, crowds gathered before sunrise, and traditional folk dancers performed to celebrate the spectacle.