Abu Simbel   Temple of Ramses II Abu Simbel is the location of the most famous temple of Ramses II. The most spectacular aspect of this temple is its setting in the solid rock above the banks of the Nile River between the First and Second Cataracts. As impressive as Abu Simbel is, it probably would not be quite as famous were it not for its relocation because of the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Relocation Between January 1966 and September 1968, the restoration work crews carved the temples into over a thousand pieces. Some of the blocks weighed as much as 30 tons a piece.  They were removed and raised over 200 feet. The pieces were then reassembled on an artificial hill above the reach of Lake Nasser.     Statues Ramses II built the Great Temple to honor himself an...