Valley of the Artisans (Deir el-Medina)

Ancient artifacts and archaeological sites can be found in Luxor, a city in Upper Egypt. Among its many attractions, the Valley of the Artisans is a must-visit location for tourists who are interested in Egyptian history and culture. Located on the West Bank of the Nile River, the Valley of the Artisans is home to numerous tombs of ancient Egyptian artisans and their families, dating back to the pharaonic era.


History:

The Valley of the Artisans was first discovered by an Italian Egyptologist in the 19th century. Since then, it has become a popular tourist destination, filled with beautifully decorated tombs and temples. The site is divided into two main areas - the Valley of the Nobles and the Valley of the Workers. The Valley of the Nobles contains tombs of the high-ranking officials of the pharaohs, whereas the Valley of the Workers includes the tombs of the artisans who created the Pharaonic masterpieces.


Architecture:

Upon entering the Valley of the Artisans, tourists are immediately captivated by the stunning architecture and intricate designs of the tombs. The walls and ceilings are filled with vivid, colorful images and hieroglyphs, depicting scenes from the daily lives of the artisans and their families. Often the artisans who built the pharaohs' tombs and temples also buried themselves in the tombs, which served as their final resting place.


The Tomb of Inherkhau:

One of the most impressive tombs in the Valley of the Artisans is the Tomb of Sennedjem, a famous artisan and a foreman of the pharaoh's work crews. The tomb features stunning murals and reliefs, depicting scenes of daily life, such as farming, weaving, metalworking, and music. The Tomb of Inherkhau, another popular attraction in the valley, features beautiful reliefs depicting the deceased and his family engaged in various activities like hunting, fishing, and playing board games.


Temple of Hatshepsut:

Aside from the tombs, the Valley of the Artisans also features several temples dedicated to the gods of Ancient Egypt. The most notable temple in the area is the Temple of Hatshepsut, a grand structure built by the female pharaoh of the same name. Its stunning architecture and impressive reliefs make it one of the most impressive temples in the world.


As a whole, the Valley of the Artisans is a fascinating tourist attraction for visitors to Luxor. Its rich history and cultural significance make it an invaluable treasure of Ancient Egypt, and the intricately decorated tombs and temples provide a vivid glimpse into the lives of the artisans and their families who contributed to the Egyptian civilization.

  • imageDuration Required
    3 hours

Address of Valley of the Artisans (Deir el-Medina)

Al Qarna, Luxor Governorate 1340412, Egypt

Opening & Closing time of Valley of the Artisans (Deir el-Medina)

  • Monday
    06:00-17:00
  • Tuesday
    06:00-17:00
  • Wednesday
    06:00-17:00
  • Thursday
    06:00-17:00
  • Friday
    06:00-17:00
  • Saturday
    06:00-17:00
  • Sunday
    06:00-17:00
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Valley of the Artisans (Deir el-Medina)

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