The Great Temple of Abu Simbel, in Nubia near Egypt’s southern border, is among the most awe-inspiring monuments of Egypt. King Rameses II (the Great)  ordered its construction after his victory at the Battle of Kadesh . Carved into the rock in the middle of the Nubian desert , the temple´s entrance  is guarded by  four imposing seated colossal statues that dominate its façade they are the  largest sculptures that survive from the ancient Pharaonic era. The temple was built with such precision that on two days a year, the 22nd of February and 22nd of October, the sun’s rays enter the temple, cross the main hall, and illuminate the innermost statues. These dates are thought to correspond to the coronation and birthday of Ramesses II. A smaller temple dedicated to  the goddess of love Hathor as well as  Ramses’ favourite wife Nefertari was built close by