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Farewell from Abu Simbel temple on Nasser Lake
Four seated monumental statues of pharaoh Ramesses II facing lake Nasser. You would already have guessed, I am looking at Abu Simbel temple. This is my last step before crossing the border into Sudan. One last time, Egypt will fill my eyes with wonders. Abu Simbel site, it is the colossal temples of Ramesses II (1279-1231 BC) and of his wife Nefertari. But also a quiet Nubian town on Nasser lake and the departing point to Wadi Halfa in nearby Sudan. The high dam of Aswan flooded large areas of Nubia in Southern Egypt and Northern Sudan in the 1960s. Unesco saved several major archaeological sites such as the Abu…
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Beauties of Nubia II: St Simeon Monastery and Nile River Cruise
Aswan region is worldwide famous for its Philae temple on nearby Agilkia island. St Simeon Monastery is now a ruin but still a strong demonstration of Christian development in Nubia during the 7th century. Cruising on the Nile is not only a delightful experience but also like travelling back in time. The river banks host testimonials of ancient empires and civilisations that inhabited the region during the past centuries. One of the driest cities in the world, Aswan was however a significant political and religious centre. Its influence reached large parts of the population under the Pharaohs, Coptic Christians and Arabs rulings. There is something I particularly like about Nubia. Its…
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Beauties of Nubia I: Elephantine island and Philae temple
Nubia is a different country, a treasure. The Elephantine island and Philae temple are jewels on the Nile. Nubians are extraordinarily friendly and welcoming. They have their own languages, culture, music and architecture. Aswan is a perfect spot for exploring the region. The pace of things is slower here, as an invitation to relax and enjoy. The blue waters of the Nile contrast with the golden dunes. On the banks, smooth rocks and thick vegetation flourish. The dance of feluccas and motor boats start at sunrise and stops at midnight. The flavour of Nubian cuisine is in the air. This place is certainly very different from Cairo and Saqqara in the…
