Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel is two massive rock-cut temples in the village of Abu Simbel, about 230 km southwest  of Aswan Governorate, Upper Egypt. The complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site they were carved out of the mountainside in the 13th century BC, during reign of the Ramesses II.  It stands 30m (98ft) tall and 35 (115ft) long. The facade of this structure, the Great Temple of Abu Simbel, is 35 meters (115 ft) long and a full 30 meters (98 ft) high. Inside, the temple has a triangular layout, with rooms decreasing in size as one progresses into the temple; the rooms are filled with engravings of Ramses II and his beloved wife, Nefertari, paying homage to the gods. The Great Temple was constructed keeping in mind the position of the sun on February 22 and October 22. On these days, sunlight penetrates 55 meters (180 ft) into the inner sanctuary to illuminate the statues along the back wall.