The Valley of the Queens is a necropolis on the west bank of the Nile, opposite Luxor City. It was the final resting place of royal wives and children of the New Kingdom pharaohs. Its best-known tomb belongs to Queen Nefertari, wife of Ramses II. Travelers visit to see the painted tombs of ancient Egypt’s royal women.
Key Takeaways
- The Valley of the Queens lies on the west bank of the Nile, opposite Luxor City.
- It holds the tombs of royal queens, princesses and princes from Egypt’s New Kingdom era.
- Archaeologists have discovered more than ninety tombs here; the most famous belongs to Queen Nefertari, wife of Ramses II.
- The best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures are mild.
- Arriving early in the morning helps avoid heat and crowds, and photography may be restricted inside some tombs.
What the Valley of the Queens Is
The Valley of the Queens, known in ancient Egyptian as “Ta-Set-Neferu” meaning “The Place of Beauty,” dates back to Egypt’s 18th Dynasty. Archaeologists have discovered more than ninety tombs in this valley, many dedicated to royal women of the 19th and 20th Dynasties. It served as the final resting place for royal wives and children of the New Kingdom pharaohs.
The Tomb of Queen Nefertari
The most renowned tomb here belongs to Queen Nefertari, the wife of Ramses II. Her burial chamber is considered one of the most beautiful in Egypt. The Tomb Of Nefertari is often hailed as the Sistine Chapel of ancient Egypt for its dazzling artwork and symbolic perfection.
Art and Symbolism in the Tombs
Each tomb in the Valley of the Queens exhibits delicate scenes of the deceased queens embracing gods and goddesses, traveling through the underworld, or standing before Osiris in judgment. The vivid murals and intricate carvings reflect the ancient Egyptians’ belief in eternal life. The use of natural pigments and celestial imagery creates a depiction of Egyptian cosmology and the afterlife. Exploring connections to Famous Egyptian Queens helps show the roles of women in pharaonic Egypt.
Other Luxor Attractions
The Valley of the Kings, which was built for pharaohs, is another necropolis on this bank. Visitors exploring the west bank can also see the Colossi Of Memnon and the Temple Of Hatshepsut. After exploring the Valley of the Queens, you can continue to the monumental Karnak Temple and the Luxor Temple. The Avenue Of Sphinxes once linked these two temples in a sacred procession of stone guardians.
The Ramesseum Temple is the mortuary temple of Ramses II, and the Luxor Museum displays preserved artifacts that deepen understanding of the New Kingdom.
Visiting the Valley of the Queens
Tips for Your Visit
Arrive early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds. Photography may be restricted inside some tombs, so check in advance. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the paths between tombs can be sandy and uneven. Hiring a licensed guide helps uncover the meanings behind the imagery and hieroglyphics.
Tour Options That Include Luxor’s West Bank
Customized Egypt Vacation Packages can include guided tours of Luxor’s west bank, expert Egyptologists and comfortable accommodations. Many travelers pair Luxor with a Nile cruise, such as the Egypt tour with Nile cruise or the 8 day Cairo and Nile cruise tour.
Other formats include a 4 day Egypt tour or a 14 day Egypt tour. A private guided tour of Egypt offers a personalized exploration led by expert Egyptologists, and the Egypt family tour holidays are described as educational and kid-friendly. For more comfort, there are the luxury Egypt tour package and the Egypt luxury trip. For more options, see Egypt Tour Packages.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Valley of the Queens
Where is the Valley of the Queens located?
The Valley of the Queens is located on the west bank of the Nile, opposite Luxor City.
Who is buried in the Valley of the Queens?
This valley is the resting place of royal queens, princesses, and princes from Egypt’s New Kingdom era. The most famous tomb belongs to Queen Nefertari, wife of Ramses II.
How can I visit the Valley of the Queens?
You can visit as part of a guided experience through various Egypt Tour Packages that include Luxor’s west bank attractions. Many travelers also choose combined itineraries with Nile cruises or family tours.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The best time to visit is between October and April when temperatures are mild. During these months, exploring the tombs and temples is more comfortable and enjoyable.
What other attractions should I visit after the Valley of the Queens?
After touring the Valley of the Queens, explore the Temple Of Hatshepsut, the Colossi Of Memnon, and the Karnak Temple for a complete historical experience in Luxor.
