Abu Simbel in Egypt is one of the most striking & awe-inspiring monuments in all of Egypt. It stands as a colossal testament to Ancient Egyptian artistry and their precision in architecture and engineering. Although ostensibly dedicated to the ancient gods Amun, Ptah, & Ra-Harakhty; The Great Temple of Ramses II was, in reality, an egotistical show of power commissioned directly by and for the Pharaoh Ramses II. He was the star of the show, with his likeness on four imposing colossi, being worshipped as a god. Would-be invaders from the south would see this bit of towering propaganda, turn tail and run the other way. It was intended to both frighten and stoke admiration.

Abu SImbel Blog Post