Abu-Simbel temple's entrance was designed more than 3,000 years ago so that twice a year the sun would shine a beam into the inner sanctuary, illuminating three statues - Ramses II, his wife queen Nefertari, and god Amun - leaving the god of the underworld Ptah in darkness. This phenomenon known as "the Sun Orthogonality" occurs on the same two dates (Ramses II's birth on October 22, and his coronation day of February 22) each year,and tourists from around the world attend the event, some for sun-worshiping rituals and others for simply observing the phenomenon. According to the annual report of the U.N. World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) last year, Egypt's tourism sector saw a remarkable 21 percent growth in 2019, welcoming 13.6 million visitors. But this year, the number of visitors has declined as people travel less because of global concerns over coronavirus. One case of the virus was suspected in Egypt, but that person tested negative after quarantine.
Coronavirus Fears Kept Many Tourists from Attending Sun Festival in Abu Simbel
1
Tourists gather to as the beam from the rising sun hits the innermost sanctuary to illuminate the statues of king Ramses II, his wife Nefertari, and God Amun Re. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
2
The solar phenomenon takes place twice per year on the presumed anniversaries of the pharaoh's birthday and coronation on Oct. 22 and Feb. 22, respectively. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
3
During the 18 minutes of the solar event, more than 4,500 tourists were able to watch the phenomenon; each tourist can observe for just for a few seconds and take a quick photo. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
4
Before the sun's rays reach the inner sanctuary, national and international tourists gather to celebrate with a night-long festival, watching local and international traditional dance shows. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
