Solar Alignment in the Abu Simbel Temple in Aswan

As designed by the ancient Egyptian architects of the temple, biannually, the sun's rays penetrate the front corridor of the entrance to the Temple of Ramses II, illuminating the statue of the king. This unique phenomenon draws crowds of officials, tourists, and locals alike two days every year – believed to be his birthday and coronation day, respectively – at the Abu Simbel Temple in Aswan.