Don’t miss out on these must-see “lights” around the world—you’ll regret it if you do!

Photos & Text / Huayou Travel

Egypt: Abu Simbel Temple – The Light Miracle (February 22 & October 22 each year)

When most people think of Egypt, they usually picture pyramids and deserts. But did you know that inside the Abu Simbel Temple, there’s a magical beam of light that only appears on two days a year? On February 22 and October 22 annually, the first rays of sunlight shine precisely through the temple’s 60-meter-long dark corridor and focus directly on the innermost sanctuary, illuminating the statues with a golden glow. This breathtaking phenomenon is known as the Light Miracle.

The legendary Pharaoh Ramesses II of ancient Egypt built many temples during his reign, but the most famous one is the Abu Simbel Temple, constructed around 1300 BCE and carved directly into a mountainside. Legend has it that it was built to showcase his greatness, demonstrate supreme authority, and intimidate enemies. The four 20-meter-tall statues at the entrance depict Ramesses II himself. The temple is now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ancient Egyptians ingeniously applied their knowledge of geography, mathematics, and astronomy to design the temple so that on February 21 (Ramesses II’s birthday) and October 21 (his coronation day), the sunlight would focus on the inner sanctuary. Even more remarkably, among the four statues in the sanctuary, the one representing the god of darkness, Ptah, is never touched by sunlight. Such brilliant design is truly astounding. Unfortunately, in the 1960s, the temple had to be relocated due to the construction of the Aswan Dam. Though the United Nations and the Egyptian government carefully cut the temple into over a thousand blocks and reassembled it, a slight miscalculation shifted the miracle to February 22 and October 22. This still shows that the wisdom of the ancient Egyptians remains unmatched today. With only two chances a year to witness this Light Miracle, make sure to experience this historic moment spanning over 3,000 years if you can.

Mexico: Chichen Itza Pyramid – The Descent of the Feathered Serpent (Spring & Autumn Equinoxes each year)

The Chichen Itza Pyramid in Mexico, Central America, is also known as the Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent due to the Mayan civilization’s worship of the feathered serpent god. In recent years, it has been honored as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

At the base of the pyramid’s front, there is a carved head of the feathered serpent god. During the spring and autumn equinoxes—symbolizing planting and harvest—the slanting sunlight casts shadows that align perfectly with the pyramid’s steps, creating a wave-like pattern that connects with the serpent head, making it look as if the serpent god is descending vividly.

Additionally, the pyramid has a total of 365 steps, matching the number of days in a year. The ancient Maya’s precise calendar system, combined with architectural and astronomical knowledge, resulted in the construction of Chichen Itza Pyramid. Though not as large as Egypt’s pyramids, its impact is no less stunning than that of Abu Simbel. With only two days a year to see this wonder, it’s no wonder it attracts countless visitors.

France: Lyon – Festival of Lights (December 7–10, 2017)

Lyon, France’s third-largest city with a long history, once miraculously survived the plague and wartime dangers. The people of Lyon transformed their gratitude into devotion to the Virgin Mary. For four days each December, they place candles in their windows and keep them lit until dawn the next day. This tradition has continued for over a century and has become an enduring celebration.

Today, the Lyon Festival of Lights has become a world-renowned light festival and an annual grand event. Candles have evolved into modern light projections, and the celebration has expanded from one night to several. People take to the streets to experience the interplay of light and shadow in the ancient city while enjoying the visual thrill of cutting-edge projection technology. The festival attracts over a million visitors each year.

From creatively placed lights to slide shows on building facades, the ancient city and light art blend seamlessly, displayed across nearly a hundred artworks throughout the city. If you’re visiting, don’t miss this four-day feast of light.

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