Valley of The Queens
This ancient necropolis, located on the west bank of the Nile, was the final resting place for Egypt’s royal women during the New Kingdom (1550–1070 BC). With over 90 tombs, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian queens.
If you are packing for a grand Luxor tour, the valley has to be on your schedule. In this deep competitive guide, we will study the location of the Valley of the Queens, its history and secrets, the exquisitely beautiful Tomb of Queen Nefertari, how to reach this area, and what makes one worth visiting versus the other between the Valley of the Kings and that of the Queens.
Valley of the Queens Location
The Valley of the Queens is located on the west bank of the Nile in Luxor, approximately 1.5 km southwest of the Valley of the Kings." Hidden inside a rugged landscape with desert cliffs, this undisturbed place was chosen to cloak the Luxor royal tombs from would-be tomb raiders and allow a peaceful afterlife for the royal women of Egypt.
Many tour operators add the Valley of the Queens to their itinerary due to its proximity to other Luxor historic sites like the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. Access is by car, tour bus, or private guide.
History and Secrets of the Valley of the Queens
The Valley of the Queens served as a burial ground for royal women, primarily queens, princesses, and some noblewomen, during the New Kingdom (1550–1070 BC). While the Valley of the Kings was reserved for pharaohs, their wives and children were interred in the Valley of the Queens.
The Valley of the Queens contains over 90 tombs, including those of queens, princesses, and high-ranking royal women. many with outstanding paintings representing ancient Egyptian mythology. The paintings were there to assist in the passage of the deceased into the afterlife per the teachings of the Book of the Dead. The great thing about the valley is the levels of preservation of some of these tombs. Although several were robbed in antiquity, others have remained in an astonishing condition that sheds light on the belief systems and funerary practices of ancient Egyptian queens.
Tomb of Queen Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens
The Valley of the Queens is home to some of the most breathtaking and well-preserved royal tombs in Egypt. The tomb of Nefertari, indeed, is the most famous and finest of all—that is (QV66). She was Nefertari, the wife whom Pharaoh Ramses II loved, and indeed her tomb is one of the most beautiful in Egypt.
What Makes Nefertari's Tomb Unique?
1. Elegant Artworks: The walls are adorned with vivid paintings that seem fresh. The murals depict the journey of Nefertari through the underworld, having the guidance of Egyptian gods and goddesses.
2. Hieroglyphic Inscriptions: This is a tomb that contains passages from the Book of the Dead. This is meant for helping Nefertari on the path to eternal life.
3. Colorful: Unlike most tombs, the coloration remains very bright; it is the brightness that makes Nefertari's tomb a high point of any kind of touring in Luxor.
Access to Nefertari's tomb is on a very limited basis because of the fragility of the tomb. To visit it, you should get a separate ticket; for them, it would be a completely unique experience among tomb visits in Egypt.
How to Visit the Valley of the Queens
For those preparing for a trip to the Valley of the Queens, here's some essential information that may be of help to enjoy the visit:
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Valley of the Queens is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring Luxor's historical sites.
How to Get There
While all tourists include the Valley of the Queens in their tour itinerary, the Valley is also visited on its own because this destination is about 4 km away from the Valley of the Kings, making it easy to visit both sites. A well-informed guide should be hired because otherwise visitors would miss learning so much about the history and secrets of the valley.
Tickets and Entry
An entrance ticket allows entry into a number of tombs of Egyptian queens; however, to enter the tomb of Nefertari, a different ticket must be acquired at a higher price. Photography within the tombs is restricted for its artwork because it is very fragile.
Valley of the Queens vs. Valley of the Kings: Which One Should You Visit?
-The Valley of the Queens or the Valley of the Kings- which to go. Many will choose which of these two places they would visit. Both cities are incredible, but they offer two very different experiences.
-The Valley of the Kings is the resting place for such famous kings as Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses VI. Most of the tombs are large and have grand corridors or deep chambers. Unfortunately, these have been damaged due to looting and other damage over the years.
-The Valley of the Queens, on the other hand, is smaller and slightly more peaceful. Though there may be fewer tombs, the open ones-barring a few- including Nefertari's tomb are some of the best preserved in all of Egypt.
-Ideally, both valleys should be toured when time allows. If it has to be one, then ascertain your interests and preferences: Royal tombs: the long ones filled by your interests, the Valley of the Kings.
If you're fond of very intricate artistry and a little more exclusive experience, the Valley of the Queens, specifically Nefertari's tomb, wins that contest.
Why the Valley of the Queens Should Be on Your Itinerary?
The Valley of the Queens, though less famous than the Valley of the Kings, is among the finest sights to visit within Luxor for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian queens and their royal tombs. From the great Nefertari's tomb to the quiet and relatively empty atmosphere, it makes for a truly magical experience.
History buff or lover of ancient art or simply looking for unusual Luxor historical sites, this valley begs for inclusion on your travel itinerary. Give yourself an opportunity to take footsteps in the footprints of the royal women in Egypt and view some of the most stunning ancient Egyptian burial sites before heading back home.
Are you ready to explore the Valley of the Queens? Book your Luxor tour today and experience Egypt’s royal history up close!"
