Tombs of the Nobles (Valley of the Nobles)
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Walking/Hiking,
Ruin - Ancient,
Temple
The Tombs of the Nobles (or Valley of the Nobles) may lack the star power of the Valley of the Kings or other Luxor hotspots, but this neglected gem is well worth a visit. This is a cemetery on a rare scale, with hundreds of tombs embedded in the rock, often richly decorated with frescoes depicting the working lives of their inhabitants.
Only a fraction of the sites can be accessed. Highlights include the tomb of Sennofer, the mayor of Thebes (modern-day Luxor), with its charming painted grapevines, and the harvest scenes accompanying Nakht the astronomer on his eternal journey.
One of the grandest tombs belongs to the nobleman Ramose, and it affords the visitor a rare glimpse of life under Akhenaten, possibly the earliest of all rulers to espouse a monotheistic faith.
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 Tombs of the Nobles are scattered in the low hills above the Ramesseum. There are separate areas each with their own admission charge; the most highly recommended is Sheikh Abd El-Gurna.
