Abu Simbel, Egypt - On February 22, 2025, observers in Abu Simbel witnessed the phenomenon of the sun aligning with the face of King Ramses II at his grand temple. This event, caused by the abundance of space and the precise angles at which the temple was constructed, attracted tourists and locals alike.
The phenomenon began at sunrise, lasting approximately 20 minutes as the sun's rays penetrated the temple's interior, illuminating statues of Ramses and other deities.
The temple houses four statues, representing Ramses, Ra-Horakhty, Amun-Re, and Ptah. Only Ptah remains in darkness during the alignment due to his association with the underworld.
The alignment is believed to have occurred on February 22 and October 22 annually, coinciding with Ramses II's birthday and coronation. The event was first recorded in 1874 by British writer Amelia Edwards and her companion.