Pyramids & tombs · Luxor
Valley Of The Queens
Where Egypt's queens and princes rest in color
- City
- Luxor
- Type
- Pyramids & tombs
- Era
- New Kingdom, c. 1550–1070 BC
Overview
The Valley of the Queens lies on the West Bank of the Nile at Luxor, in the ancient Theban necropolis. The ancient Egyptians called it Ta-Set-Neferu, often translated as the "Place of Beauty". It is a rocky wadi in the desert hills, south-west of the better-known Valley of the Kings, close to the temple of Medinet Habu.
Although its name suggests a burial ground only for queens, the valley also holds the tombs of princes and other members of the royal family. It was used mainly during the 19th and 20th Dynasties, the Ramesside age, though a few earlier burials are known. The valley contains dozens of tombs, and many are small, damaged or unfinished.
Together with the rest of ancient Thebes, the valley is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 1979. Its quiet setting and fine painted reliefs make it a good complement to a visit to the Valley of the Kings, and it offers a closer look at how royal women and children were remembered in the afterlife.
What to see
- 01Tomb of Queen Nefertari (QV66), built for the Great Royal Wife of Ramesses II and famed for its vivid wall paintings
- 02Tomb of Prince Amun-her-khepeshef (QV55), a son of Ramesses III, with detailed scenes of the prince with his father
- 03Tomb of Prince Khaemwaset (QV44), another son of Ramesses III, with well-preserved reliefs
- 04The wadi's rocky desert setting, with views across the West Bank necropolis
Visitor tips
- Visit early in the day, when the West Bank is cooler, and bring water, sun protection and comfortable shoes for uneven ground.
- Entry to Nefertari's tomb is usually ticketed separately and limited to protect the paintings, so check current rules and ticket arrangements locally before you go.
- Combine the visit with nearby sites such as Medinet Habu and Deir el-Medina, and follow site signs on photography and on touching the walls.
Frequently asked questions
Who is buried in the Valley of the Queens?
The valley was used for the burials of royal wives, princes and princesses, and other royal family members, mainly in the 19th and 20th Dynasties. Its best-known tomb belongs to Queen Nefertari, wife of Ramesses II.
Why is the tomb of Nefertari so famous?
Nefertari's tomb (QV66) is renowned for its richly painted walls showing the queen with deities and scenes from the afterlife. It underwent a major conservation project in the late 20th century, and access is carefully controlled.
Where is the Valley of the Queens and how do I get there?
It is on the West Bank of the Nile at Luxor, near Medinet Habu and Deir el-Medina. Visitors usually reach it by taxi, private driver or organized tour after crossing the river from Luxor's East Bank.
