Egypt: The Temples Saved from the Nile

This film retraces the pharaohs' – from Ramses II to Cleopatra – and the Romans' steps to better understand the turbulent history of their temples up until their rescues. Thanks to an unprecedented international mobilization, discover an exceptional heritage saved at the cost of a "pharaonic" trip.

When they returned from southern Egypt, travelers reported the existence of temples between the Nubian desert and the Nile. Majestic stone colossi emerging from the sands kept the doors and their secrets. 

For centuries, Abu Simbel, Dendur, Amada, and other monuments were victims of looting, earthquakes, desert encroachment, and floods, only to end up almost being swallowed up by the waters in the 20th century. In 1954, the announcement of the construction of a dam threatened the whole of Nubia and more than 20 ancient shrines.

Some temples were dismantled in a hurry and relocated to artificial islands, and others were shipped abroad in places such as Madrid, Turin, or even New York. Former construction site workers attest to the grueling working conditions during operations. We also present archives revealing the ingenious rescue plans explained in 3D animations.