Sun to illuminate Egypt’s ancient Karnak Temple Dec. 21

CAIRO - 14 December 2019: Crowds of tourists and Egyptians are expected to flock to Luxor on December 21 to witness the magnificent phenomenon of the sun aligning on the Temple of Amun inside the 4,000-year-old Karnak Temple.

The annual two-hour event, starts at 6 a.m., will mark the first day of winter, as per the outstanding progressive knowledge of the ancient Egyptian.

Every year, attendees come to watch the sunlight as it falls perfectly perpendicular on the sanctuary of Amun Ra’a at the center of the temple; the sunrays then move towards the temple’s gates to reach Hatshepsut's ancient temple.

“The phenomenon is one of the most important events that we are seeking to utilize, in order to revive tourism and spread knowledge about the ancient Egyptian civilization,” Luxor's governor stated, adding that it is a proof of how ancient Egyptians were pioneers in the field of astrology.

The astrological event marks the northern winter solstice, which is the year’s shortest day, and also the beginning of the winter season. It happens twice a year to mark both winter and summer.

Temples will be open free of charge for people to attend the event. A number of officials of Luxor governorate as well as security heads will attend the event.