Tourists gathered Saturday in front of Aswan’s Abu Simbel Temple to witness the bi-yearly phenomenon of the sun’s rays falling directly onto the King Ramses II statue within, to mark his birthday, state news agency MENA reported.

This phenomenon takes place twice a year, between 20 and 22 February, when the king was crowned, and from 20 and 22 October, when he was born.

The celebration was attended by Egyptian and foreign tourists as well as the ministers of antiquities, tourism and culture.

“This phenomenon is a unique astronomical miracle, as it dates back to 33 centuries  ago,” Minister of Antiquities Khaled Al-Anany said during the celebration.

A number of folklore dance troupes performed popular dances during the celebration.