Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir el-Bahari)
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Walking/Hiking,
Ruin - Ancient,
Temple
The vast Temple of Hatshepsut in Deir el-Bahari rivals the Pyramids as one of the great funerary monuments of the ancient world. Built into the towering cliff face which shelter the Valley of the Kings on the other side, it rises on three enormous terraces connected by ramps, each level marked with a colonnade of stark, largely unadorned square pillars.
Its namesake was one of the few female pharaohs of ancient Egypt, who not unfairly called her monument “Splendor of Splendors”. However, much of the construction dated from earlier rulers, starting with Mentuhotep II in 2050 BC. Numerous sphinxes and other statues have since disappeared, making the whole structure appear even more monolithic.
The cool stone interior provides welcome relief from the pitiless heat of this region, and features well-preserved wall reliefs and hieroglyphics, some in brilliant colors.
Latest Reviews
Review by Gary B, May 2013
Doing what: Private Tour: Luxor West Bank, Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple
Fascinating tour and high recommended! The guide (Youla) had lived in Luxor all her life and was extremely knowledgeable about the sites as well as life in Luxor. I had a great time and would have no hesitation to recommend this tour or Youla.
Review by James D, July 2012
Doing what: Private Tour: Luxor West Bank, Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple
Another wonderful excursion. Our guide Adele was very knowledgable.
Review by rickw, July 2012
Doing what: Private Tour: Luxor West Bank, Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple
My guide made this trip so enjoyable. He knows him Egyption history and is very passionate about his job. Without a doubt he made the trip.
Practical Info
The Temple of Hatshepsut is near the Valley of the Kings, on the western side of the Nile in the mortuary temple complex of Deir el-Bahari.
