Abu Simbel Off The Beaten Path

Qasr Ibrim is one of the most interesting historical sites in Upper Egypt. That is because it hosts the remains of many periods. The first written memory of people who had an interest in this place is a commemorative stone plaque of Pharao Amenhotep the first. But there are signs of inhabitance dating back to the Old Kingdom. There is a small Tempel of Taharqa, a Nubian Pharao of the 25th Dynasty. During Ptolemaic times it became an important place and as many as 6 tempels were build here.
Later it became the most important Christian city in Nubia and the remains of the cathedral are still there. It was the last Christian stronghold to fell for the Islamic expansion drift. It hold on until the 16th century. In 1811 the original inhabitants were driven away by the Mammeluks, who fled the opression of Mohamed Ali.

This place can only be explored if you take the trip on the fishing boat of NEGRASHI (see my Transportation tip). The place is to delicate to welcome big loads of tourists. The big cruise can only give you a sight from the ship. But small groups of 8 to 10 persons are welcome.