Nubian Museum, Aswan

The Unfinished Obelisk of Aswan is a monument in Egypt. It is surely an intriguing but lesser-known landmark, lending an aura of the ancient world. It is placed right in the middle of the granite quarry of Aswan. Even in its incomplete state, it is massive and can therefore show us how intelligent and engineering-oriented the ancient builders of Egypt were. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking to explore Egypt’s rich heritage, this site is a must-see on your Egypt tour. The trip to the Unfinished Obelisk is more than just a journey into the manufacturing process of the ancient Egyptians. It is a step into one of the most ambitious yet incomplete projects of the pharaohs.

History and Importance of the Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk has been one of the great standing exemplars of the history of ancient Egyptian architecture and engineering in the Aswan area of Egypt. This gigantic, unfinished structure provides an excellent interpretation of both the art of stone-carving and monolithic construction around the 18th Dynasty era and under Queen Hatshepsut.

Birth and Purpose

It was meant to be the largest of all the obelisks. Constructed by Queen Hatshepsut (1479–1458 BCE), who bestrides Egypt as an iconic female monarch. One of the queens who had dwarfed male pharaohs in her being, she needed to establish monumental constructions that would leave an indelible imprint. Elevation: Place the obelisk at the Temple of Amun-Ra in Karnak, Thebes.

Obelisks were meant to honor deities and either commemorate important incidents or reigns of pharaohs. The monument to Ra, or the sun god, obelisks were said to stand as pillars of light held up on earth and heaven, adorning entrances to temples. So, the Unfinished Obelisk was meant as a grand metaphor, a show of Queen Hatshepsut's might and devotion.

The Construction Process

In the granite quarries of Aswan, the obelisk was hewn. They were a primary source of stones for many of the monumental constructions of old Egyptian culture. The stone was slowly freed by carving away the granite and using copper tools. These were the only sort of tools available during that time. Furthermore, these workers would probably have used water-soaked wooden wedges to pry into and split apart stone, thereby making that unpleasant work easier.

The obelisk eventually grew to 41 meters (135 feet) in length before the project was laid aside and weighed approximately 1200 tons if completed. Its great size would have surpassed the much lighter setups that survived.

Why Was It Left Unfinished?

Primarily, a crack develops in the granite as the obelisk is carved, and this may be why the project was discarded: it was likely seen as a flaw that would have made the stone unstable and hazardous to move or erect.

There could also be the fact that the change that took place in politics and society after the successor of Hatshepsut, Thutmose III, influenced these monumental projects. Thutmose III was gradually consolidating his power and reversing many of Hatshepsut's policies, and as supplies and priorities shifted rather quickly, it is likely that the obelisk's construction may have been delayed.

Significance of the Unfinished Obelisk

The continued presence of the Unfinished Obelisk qualifies it as one of the greatest landmarks in archeological and historical exposure to ancient Egyptian craftwork. It is one of a kind, the largest, and the only obelisk of its class still within the quarry, leaving an important history of precisely how they carved, transported, and put up such immensely heavy structures.

Why the Unfinished Obelisk is a Must-See Landmark in Aswan

1. A Peek into Ancient Engineering and Craftsmanship

The Unfinished Obelisk is the result of the outstanding skills of the ancient Egyptian engineer and stone mason. To this day, one can see in Aswan how large sections of stone were cut out of solid granite bedrock with copper tools, chisels, and wooden wedges. What better way to understand the complexity and level of work involved in such monumental tasks than to see one at its very beginning point and think of how it would have grown to completion? This is a great learning opportunity that puts everything in proper context-the grand constructions of Egypt such as the pyramids and all other obelisks throughout the country.

2. An Unfinished Masterpiece: The Backstory

What makes the Unfinished Obelisk marvelously entertaining is the fact that it remains uncompleted. The cracked piece of granite served to halt the project thereafter. The unfinished work forms a bridge to the imperfections of the ancient world, evidently proving that the greatest ideas could be affected by an even minimal contingency. The story of the making and decline gives insight into the ambition of the ancient Egyptians and the differences they encountered while building the great structures.

3. A rarely-seen Seen site

While the majority of obelisks were transported to their sites to be raised as key monuments, the Unfinished Obelisk still inhabits its own quarry in the area of Aswan. This makes it a rare and invaluable archaeological site. Standing next to this giant piece of unfinished obelisk, one can only imagine how the structure looked and get a sense of the work that went into enormous projects. This epitomizes a connection to the past that gives visitors a true view of strategies from the extraction and carving of stone used in building Egypt's most iconic landmarks.

4. Connection to Queen Hatshepsut's Legacy

The Unfinished Obelisk was made and planned by Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most powerful pharaohs. Being one of the most powerful women that ever walked the earth, Hatshepsut actually embarked on a host of building projects—big and small—built to remind subsequent generations of her tenure. If you visit the Unfinished Obelisk, it really drives home the reign of Queen Hatshepsut. Though it remained incomplete, it still painted a pictorial ambition of the grand projects Hatshepsut envisioned, projects that not only included the Sun Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari.

5. Stunning Views of a myriad of Desert and Garden scenes

Tourists can get a glimpse of the Aswan granite quarry from where the Unfinished Obelisk is born, not to mention the stunning panoramic views offered by the surrounding landscapes. While exploring the historical gem itself, anyone who comes to Aswan will be spoiled for choice with beautiful desert scenes, etc. The place is very peaceful and conducive for those who would like to think about history in relation to its works and the natural beauty of Aswan.

6. There Is More to Know: Size and Scale of the Ancient Monuments

When gazing at that huge stone, it makes one wonder at the great size of the Unfinished Obelisk. Should it have ever been finished, it might have been one of the tallest obelisks in Egypt and thus tower above anything in the distance. Such a fact provides an interesting insight into the grand ideas the ancient Egyptians had regarding their architecture and the logistical problems involved in the erection of such monoliths.

7. An Unforgettable Educational Experience

The Unfinished Obelisk is another one-of-a-kind educational experience for history buffs, archaeologists, as well as those interested in ancient civilizations. You could say the Unfinished Obelisk looks at a stage of Egypt's past without any embellishments, without any polish over time, or restoration with modern materials. It speaks volumes into issues concerning the ancient Egyptians' understanding of materials, as well as technologies and culture.

8. Unique POV on Egyptian History

The Unfinished Obelisk suggests some of Egypt's greatest projects went unfinished or did not proceed according to expectations. This view of chance occurrence in Egyptian history becomes insightful as it demonstrates that perfection of everything was not always the case. Nonetheless, although unfinished, this monument has lasted for millennia and continues to enchant and inspire visitors from all around the globe.

The Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan is a sweeping evocation of the vigor and ambition of Egyptian antiquity. Its enormity and inactivity lend it its unusually prized value in its depiction of the characteristics shared by the ancient builders, as well as the determination to sue the extreme amount of effort at their disposal before completing the construction of such immense structures. You should visit this spot if you like Egypt's compelling historical content, which could be while you are contemplating the quarry, considering the legacies of Queen Hatshepsut, or marveling at the technicalities of engineering meant to sustain it, etc. Really recommend paying a visit to this site during your Aswan day tour, as it stays long on the mind as a rare experience to further reinforce the admiration for the builders' civilization, which formed the grandeur and cultural heritage of Egypt. 

Visit the Amazing Abu Simbel Temples: One of Egypt's Most Popular Attractions

South of Aswan, along Lake Nasser's stunning shores, stands Egypt's second-most renowned landmark after the Giza Pyramids. These stunning rock-hewn temples were built by the powerful pharaoh Ramses II during the height of Egypt's power in the New Kingdom. Serving as a symbol of the grandeur of Egypt’s rulers, Abu Simbel marked the southern boundary of Egypt with Nubia.

History and Rediscovery of Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel had been long forgotten until 1813, when Swiss explorer John Lewis Burckhardt rediscovered the site. The temples had, over the years, been buried under sand, hiding the colossal statues that remain today. The sand was cleared starting in 1909, and Abu Simbel was the first big archaeological site to be excavated in southern Egypt.This rediscovery served to further establish Abu Simbel as a central component of Luxor tours and Egypt's amazing archaeological history.

Architectural Marvel: The Temples of Ramses II

The Abu Simbel temples were not only built as memorials to Ramses II and his consort, Nefertari, but also as places of worship for the deities. The main temple, with the four massive statues of Ramses seated in front, is devoted to Amun, Ptah, and Re-Harakty. The smaller temple, less than grand, was consecrated to Ramses's dearly loved wife, Nefertari, and dedicated to the goddess Hathor. This architectural marvel is accessible during Luxor day tours, which will serve as the centerpiece of your trip to Egypt.

The Significance of Nefertari's Temple

Unmatched in Nefertari's temple is the outstanding representation of the queen. Six giant statues dress its facade—four of Ramses II and two of Nefertari. This reflects her high status, since she is portrayed as almost equal to the pharaoh himself.In planning Luxor tours, don't overlook the opportunity to uncover the importance of this temple, a witness to the strength of the pharaohs and their queens.

The Abu Simbel Sun Festival: A Wondrous Event

One of the best features of the big temple is its alignment with the sun. Twice each year, on 22nd February and 22nd October, the sun precisely enters the innermost region of the temple, showering light on the statue of Ramses II. This divine phenomenon, known as the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, attracts thousands of travelers every year. It is a breathtaking testimony to the ancient Egyptians' expertise in astronomy as well as to their remarkable skills of engineering.

Travel to Abu Simbel: Travel Faculties and Tours of Egypt

The temples are a few hours' journey south of Aswan, but the easiest way of getting to Abu Simbel is by plane. Flights from Aswan to Abu Simbel take only about 30 minutes, with two daily departures allowing tourists around two hours to explore the site. Alternatively, you can experience the temples by joining a Nasser cruise, where passengers can view the temples by moonlight and in the early morning light.

For an unforgettable experience, consider booking one of our Egypt travel packages that include visits to Abu Simbel as part of your itinerary.

A visit to Abu Simbel is an absolute must during any tour of Luxor. If you're doing a Luxor day tour or a longer Egypt tour, Abu Simbel's temples provide the visitor with an insight into the great achievements of ancient Egypt. Don't miss out on seeing this stunning UNESCO World Heritage during your next Egypt tour

This beautiful Philae temple complex is one of the foremost things to do in Aswan with it's picturesque in all of Egypt. It sits on Aglika Island just south of the old High Dam, and you need to ride a motorboat to reach the island. This temple was moved to its current location following the development of the High Dam, which threatened to submerge it permanently.

The exact reconstruction at this site carefully completed, painstakingly preserving the original appearance and layout of the complex and even landscaping the island to match its former location.

Philae grew to prominence during the Ptolemaic Dynasty, because of the center of the cult of the goddess Isis. This complex was one of all the last remaining places, where the traditional religion survived after the arrival of Christianity in Egypt, officially closed only in 550 AD as the Early Christians used most of the temple on the island as a church.

This is the reason for the defacement of a number of the figures of the traditional Gods, as these Christians tried to get rid of the pagan imagery from their newly claimed sanctuaries.
The Temple of Isis is the main feature here, but there are several other smaller temples on the island that are worth admiring.

The location of the Aswan dam

The Aswan Dam is located in the south of Egypt, Aswan crosses the Nile River and utilizes its power for several social and economic cases.

History of building Aswan Dam

British engineers started working on the first Aswan Dam in 1899 and completed the work in 1902, but the final result showed to be inadequate for the strong currents of the Nile. Some attempts to raise the height of the Dam had been carried out, but it still insufficient.
The Egyptian government decided to build a second dam after the 1952 Egyptian Revolution, and the building lasted until 1970. The second Dam was primarily intended to be a joint project between Egypt, the United States, and Great Britain. But Unfortunately, the foreign backers canceled the funding before construction began.
Therefore, The Soviet Union offered to provide some of the needed funding to gain a foothold in Africa during the Cold War. They also provided technicians and large machinery, as well as funds.

Benefits of the High Dam

The essential benefit of the Aswan Dam is controlling the annual flooding of the Nile River. Also, the Dam has helped the agricultural industries in the area as it provided much-needed water for irrigation, as well as producing electricity from the hydroelectric output of the river. The Dam granted small villages in Egypt the luxury of using electricity for the first time.
 Lake Nasser, named in his honor, is the giant reservoir created by the Dam –300 miles long and 10 miles wide. Its formation required the resettlement of 90,000 Egyptian peasants and Sudanese Nubian nomads. Most of the water that enters into Lake Nasser is dedicated to agricultural causes; the water is applied to crops on the field through a system that allows two crops a year to be produced, in contrast with the natural precipitation which allowed one crop only in the year. This enhanced the economy of the country.

What happened to the Archaeological sites for building the Dam

Nearly 22 monuments and architectural complexes that were threatened by flooding from Lake Nasser, including the Abu Simbel temples, were relocated to the shores of the lake under the UNESCO Campaign for Nubia. Other monuments that were relocated are Philae, Kalabsha, Amada, The Debod temple, The Temple of Dendur, The Temple of Taffeh, The Temple of Ellesyia, and The temple of Ramses II.

Aswan City is a hidden gem in Egypt that is often overlooked by tourists. However, this ancient city has so much to offer, from historic landmarks to cultural experiences and adventure activities. In this guide, we will take you through the best attractions and activities that Aswan City has to offer. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Aswan City has something for everyone.

Introduction to Aswan City

Aswan City is located in the southern part of Egypt and is often referred to as the gateway to Africa. This ancient city has a rich history that dates back to the Pharaonic era. Aswan City is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt, including the Aswan Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk. In addition to its historic landmarks, Aswan City is also known for its natural beauty, with the Nile River, Lake Nasser, and Elephantine Island offering stunning scenery.

Top Aswan attractions and landmarks

If you are planning a trip to Aswan City, there are several attractions and landmarks that you should not miss. One of the most iconic landmarks in Aswan City is the Aswan Dam. This impressive structure spans the Nile River and was built in the 1960s to control the flooding of the Nile and generate hydroelectric power. Visitors can take a tour of the dam and learn about its history and engineering.
Another must-see attraction in Aswan City is the Philae Temple. This ancient temple was dedicated to the goddess Isis and was moved from its original location on Philae Island to its current location on Agilkia Island in the 1970s to save it from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Exploring the Aswan Dam and Lake Nasser

The Aswan Dam is not only an impressive feat of engineering but also offers stunning views of the Nile River and Lake Nasser. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake and see the various islands and temples that are scattered throughout the area. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing and water sports, such as kayaking and windsurfing.
If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of the area, you can also take a tour of the Nubian villages that are located along the shores of Lake Nasser. These villages offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Nubian people, who are known for their colorful clothing, music, and dance.

Nubian culture and traditions

The Nubian people have a rich history and culture that is unique to the Aswan region. One of the best ways to experience Nubian culture is to visit the Nubian Museum in Aswan City. This museum showcases the history, art, and culture of the Nubian people, with exhibits that range from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

Another way to experience Nubian culture is to attend a traditional Nubian music and dance performance. These performances are often held in local cafes or restaurants and feature colorful costumes, lively music, and energetic dance moves.

Philae Temple and other ancient sites

In addition to the Philae Temple, Aswan City is home to several other ancient sites that are worth visiting. The Temple of Kom Ombo, which is located about 50 kilometers north of Aswan City, is a unique temple that is dedicated to two gods, Sobek and Horus. The temple is known for its unusual design, with two identical entrances and two sets of chambers and halls.

Another ancient site that is worth visiting is the Abu Simbel temples. These temples were built by Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BC and were also moved to their current location to save them from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The temples are known for their impressive size and intricate carvings.

Cruise along the Nile River

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Aswan City is to take a cruise along the Nile River. There are several cruise options available, from luxury cruises to budget-friendly options. During the cruise, you can sit back and relax while taking in the stunning scenery of the Nile River and the surrounding landscape.

Aswan Botanical Garden and Elephantine Island

For nature lovers, the Aswan Botanical Garden and Elephantine Island are must-visit destinations. The botanical garden is located on Kitchener Island and is home to a wide variety of plants and trees from around the world. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Elephantine Island, which is located in the Nile River, is known for its ancient ruins and historic sites. The island was a major center of trade and commerce in ancient times and was once home to a temple dedicated to the god Khnum. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the island at the Elephantine Island Museum.

Local markets and shopping

No trip to Aswan City is complete without a visit to the local markets. The Aswan Souk, which is located in the heart of Aswan City, is a bustling market that is known for its colorful stalls and traditional handicrafts. Visitors can browse through the stalls and purchase souvenirs, such as jewelry, textiles, and pottery.

Adventure activities in Aswan

For adventure seekers, Aswan City offers several exciting activities. One of the most popular activities is hot air ballooning, which offers stunning views of the Nile River and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also go camel trekking in the desert, take a quad biking tour, or go hiking in the nearby mountains.

Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan

The Unfinished Obelisk is one of the most unique landmarks in Aswan City. This massive obelisk was carved out of solid granite but was never completed. Visitors can see the obelisk in its unfinished state and learn about the ancient quarrying techniques that were used to carve it.
Conclusion: Why Aswan City should be on your travel bucket list.

Aswan City is a hidden gem in Egypt that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its iconic landmarks and ancient sites to its vibrant markets and adventure activities, Aswan City has something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Egypt, be sure to put Aswan City on your travel bucket list. You won't be disappointed!

See Also

All What you Need to Know about The Nubian Customs and Villages

Kom Ombo Temple

Philae Temple

The dam was conceived as an ambitious, multi-purpose project aimed at improving irrigation and water resource control and development, increasing cultivation, providing protection against high floods and severe drought, and facilitating navigation, fishery expansion and electric power generation, while minimizing harmful effects on the environment and the country's rich cultural heritage.

The Nubian Museum Tour in Aswan is an exclusive chance to immerse oneself in all that Nubia represents. Examine evidence-backed relics and ancient treasures, from sculptures to pottery and jewels to objects of art, that relate to the memory of the Nubian civilizations. Understand the compelling story of their history, art, and the influence Nubia had upon ancient Egypt. If you're a history enthusiast, the Nubian Museum, surrounded by Nubian culture, is a wonderful stop during your tour of Egypt that will enlighten you about the development of a civilization that formed the basis of Egyptian heritage.