Egypt to celebrate 200th anniversary of Abu Simbel discovery

CAIRO – 20 October 2017: The Antiquities Ministry will organize a world-class celebration in November to mark the 200th anniversary of the discovery of Abu Simbel temples, one of the most prominent Egyptian monuments, Minister Khaled el Anani revealed on Friday.

He made the announcement during his opening of a photo gallery displaying stages of unearthing the Abu Simbel temples and the tomb of King Seti I at the headquarters of the Italian Cultural Center in Cairo.

Accompanied by Italian Ambassador to Egypt Giampaolo Cantinion, Anani asserted the strong relations binding the two countries in the archaeological field.

For his part, the Italian diplomat highlighted the historic role played by Italian explorer Giovanni Battista Belzoni, who managed to get access to the temples’ entrance and uncover the grave of King Seti I in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings.

Also,Cantinion said that cultural ties between Egypt and Italy are exceptional.

A bust of Belzoni will be unveiled in the November celebration.