Monday, 25 May 2026
Zahi Hawass Foundation hosts lecture on Abu Simbel Temples in Cairo
The Zahi Hawass Foundation for Archaeology and Heritage held a remarkable cultural and academic event on Tuesday evening in Cairo, shining new light on the world-renowned Abu Simbel Temples.
The lecture, titled “Abu Simbel Temples: The Epic of Man and Stone,” took place at the historic Prince Taz Palace and drew students, scholars, and heritage enthusiasts.
Professor Ahmed Badran, a leading specialist in ancient Egyptian archaeology and language at Cairo University, delivered the keynote presentation. He explored the historical, religious, and geographical significance of Abu Simbel—one of Egypt’s greatest architectural marvels built by Pharaoh Ramses II. Dr. Badran highlighted how the temples demonstrate both the artistic and engineering genius of ancient Egyptians, as well as their deep spiritual and political symbolism.
The lecture covered several key topics, including:
- Abu Simbel’s crucial role in safeguarding Egypt’s southern borders;
- The temples’ religious meanings and symbolism under Ramses II;
- The role of Nubian monuments in ancient Egypt;
- The milestone UNESCO-led rescue operation in the 1960s that saved the temples from flooding—the first global collaboration of its kind to preserve cultural heritage;
- The famous astronomical phenomenon when sunlight illuminates the statue of Ramses II inside the temple twice a year;
- Ramses II’s legacy as a ruler, diplomat, and cultural icon, and the stories of Queen Nefertari, immortalized in her own temple at the site.
The organizers emphasized that the rescue of Abu Simbel, involving over 50 countries, stands as a symbol of international cooperation in heritage preservation.
An open forum concluded the lecture, sparking lively discussion and deeper appreciation of Egypt’s enduring civilization. Attendees expressed their gratitude for the detailed insights and celebrated the significance of Abu Simbel as a beacon of cultural pride and an inspiration for world heritage.