Temple of Beit el-Wali

[1] The Nubian temples of Ramesses II (i.e. Wadi es-Sebua, Beit el-Wali and Abu Simbel), were part of a state sponsored policy designed to maintain Egyptian control over this area.

[2] During the New Kingdom period of Egypt, Nubia was not only ruled by Egyptian officials but also subject to: There is a large amount of original colour remaining in the inner part of this temple though the paint has disappeared from the historical scenes on its Forecourt.

[2] Near the middle of the south wall of the temple, Ramesses II is depicted charging into battle against the Nubians while his two young sons Amun-her-khepsef and Khaemwaset are shown being present in this relief scene.

"[3] The overriding theme of Egyptian military success is also hammered home on the opposite wall, where Ramesses II's triumphal campaigns in Libya and Syria were recorded: he is portrayed trampling his enemies and holding others "by their hair in his left hand while smiting them with his right.

[3] Henceforth, Ramesses II is shown as a pious ruler who worships other deities; besides the doorway leading to the sanctuary "are niches containing statues of the king with (on the left) Isis and Horus and (on the right) Khnum and Anuket, the gods of Elephantine and the First Cataract.

Forecourt of Beit el-Wali temple
Earliest photo, 1854 by John Beasley Greene
Wall relief of Ramesses II making an offering to Horus at Beit el-Wali temple
Relief of Ramesses II smiting an enemy of Egypt from Beit el-Wali
Relief of Ramesses II being suckled by Anuket and offered life by Khnum