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Temple of Hatshepsut and the Legacy of Egypt's Formidable Female Pharaoh
Updated: Oct 28
Imagine a woman ascending the throne of ancient Egypt, ruling with power and grace, leaving behind a legacy that defied the norms of her time. This is the story of Hatshepsut, the remarkable pharaoh who built a magnificent temple that continues to awe and inspire to this day.
Journey with us to the heart of Luxor, where the Temple of Hatshepsut stands as a testament to her ambition and architectural brilliance. Hatshepsut was not only one of the very few female Pharaoh's to ever hold power in Egypt, but also one if its most prolific builders. Despite a campaign of trying to hide her legacy after her death, much of what she left behind survives to this day. She is now revered as one of the great leaders in the incredible history of ancient Egypt and rightfully so. The Queen who dared to be King!
In this post we tell the story of Hatshepsut, showcase the glory of her mortuary temple, and give you all you need to know before you go including best times to visit, opening times, ticket prices and more.
Table of Contents
● Why did Thutmose III attempt to erase the memory of Hatshepsut from history?
● The history of the Valley of the Kings
● 10 interesting facts about Hatshepsut's Temple
● Tips for visiting Hatshepsut's Temple & the Valley of the Kings
● Hatshepsut's Temple opening times & best time to visit
● Getting tickets for Hatshepsut's Temple
● How to get to Hatshepsut's Temple
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Who was Pharaoh Hatshepsut?
Hatshepsut (meaning Foremost of Noble Ladies), was one of ancient Egypt's most remarkable rulers, defying convention and leaving an indelible mark on history. Born circa 1508 BCE to Thutmose I, a successful pharaoh who ushered in the golden age of the New Kingdom, she ascended to the throne around 1478 BCE, becoming one of the few female pharaohs to rule Egypt. She ruled for 22 years, the longest period of any woman in Egyptian history.
Her rise to power began when she married her half-brother Thutmose II, solidifying her position within the royal family. They had one daughter, Neferure. Following Thutmose II's death, Hatshepsut initially acted as regent for her young stepson, Thutmose III. Thutmose III was co-regent with his stepmother, and was head of the army, but Hatshepsut was the effective ruler, and she soon transitioned into the role of pharaoh herself, becoming one of the few female pharaohs in Egyptian history.
Despite initial challenges to her reign due to her gender, Hatshepsut skillfully navigated the political landscape, consolidating her power and instituting a period of prosperity and innovation known as the "Golden Age" of the 18th dynasty. To solidify her legitimacy as a pharaoh in a male-dominated society, Hatshepsut often adopted the iconography of a male king. Statues depict her wearing the pharaoh's headdress and ceremonial beard, a bold move that challenged traditional gender roles.
Hatshepsut's reign was characterized by ambitious building projects, most notably her mortuary temple, known as Djeser-Djeseru (or the Temple of Hatshepsut) at Deir el-Bahari, that we are writing about in this post. This temple, designed by her steward and architect Senenmut, is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture, blending seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs and embodying the grandeur and elegance of Hatshepsut's reign.
Following the tradition of most pharaohs, Hatshepsut had monuments built at the Temple of Karnak, including the restoration of the original Precinct of Mut, an ancient goddess of Egypt, that had been damaged by the Hyksos occupation. She had twin obelisks, at the time the tallest in the world, erected at the entrance to the temple. One still stands, as the tallest surviving ancient obelisk on Earth. The other has broken in two and fallen down.
Beyond her architectural achievements, Hatshepsut's legacy is also notable for her successful trade expeditions, particularly to the land of Punt (modern-day Somalia), which brought back exotic goods such as myrrh, incense, and exotic animals. These expeditions not only enriched Egypt but also solidified Hatshepsut's reputation as a powerful and capable leader on the international stage.
Despite her many accomplishments, Hatshepsut's legacy was somewhat overshadowed after her death. Her successor, Thutmose III, attempted to erase her memory from history, defacing statues and inscriptions depicting her reign. However, in modern times, Hatshepsut has been increasingly recognized for her achievements and her role in shaping Egypt's history.
Our epic 16 hour journey of a lifetime as we explore the Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Karnak Temple, cruise on the River Nile and more!
Why did Thutmose III attempt to erase the memory of Hatshepsut from history?
Thutmose III's motivations for attempting to erase Hatshepsut's memory from history are not definitively known, but historians have proposed several theories based on the available evidence. One possible reason is Thutmose III's desire to solidify his own legitimacy and authority as pharaoh. Hatshepsut's reign represented an unprecedented deviation from traditional gender norms, with her assumption of the throne likely seen as a challenge to the established order. By erasing her memory from monuments and inscriptions, Thutmose III may have sought to downplay her significance and emphasize his own rightful claim to the throne.
Additionally, Thutmose III may have harbored personal resentment or animosity towards Hatshepsut. As her stepson and successor, he initially served as co-regent during the early years of her reign. However, Hatshepsut's increasing consolidation of power may have marginalized Thutmose III, leading to tensions between them. Erasing her memory could have been a way for Thutmose III to assert his own authority and diminish any lingering influence of his predecessor.
Furthermore, religious and ideological factors may have played a role in Thutmose III's actions. Hatshepsut's elevation to the status of pharaoh, traditionally a male role associated with divine kingship, may have been viewed as sacrilegious or blasphemous by some. Thutmose III, seeking to reaffirm the traditional religious and cultural norms, may have sought to erase Hatshepsut's memory as part of a broader restoration of order and legitimacy within Egyptian society.
Ultimately, the exact motivations behind Thutmose III's campaign to erase Hatshepsut's memory remain open to interpretation, but it is likely that a combination of political, personal, and ideological factors influenced his actions.
The history of the Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of the Nile River near the ancient city of Thebes (modern-day Luxor), is one of Egypt's most iconic archaeological sites. It served as the burial place for many pharaohs and high-ranking nobles of the New Kingdom period (circa 1550–1070 BCE), a time of great prosperity and monumental construction in ancient Egypt.
The valley was chosen as a burial site due to its secluded and desolate location, hidden amidst rugged cliffs and mountains, which provided a natural defense against tomb robbers. The first pharaoh to be buried in the Valley of the Kings was Thutmose I, of the 18th dynasty, although earlier rulers were interred in tombs in nearby areas.
The tombs constructed in the Valley of the Kings are renowned for their elaborate architecture and richly decorated interiors, featuring intricate reliefs, hieroglyphs, and scenes depicting the journey of the deceased through the afterlife. The most famous tomb in the valley is that of Tutankhamun (KV62), discovered nearly intact by Howard Carter in 1922. Tutankhamun's tomb contained a wealth of treasures, including his iconic golden death mask, which captured the world's imagination and sparked renewed interest in ancient Egypt.
Over the centuries, the Valley of the Kings was the final resting place for numerous pharaohs, queens, and members of the royal family, including Seti I, Ramesses II, and Hatshepsut. Despite the valley's remote location and efforts to safeguard the tombs, many of them were eventually plundered by tomb robbers in antiquity.
Today, the Valley of the Kings remains an important archaeological site and a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its ancient wonders and glimpse into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian royalty. Ongoing excavations and research continue to shed new light on the history and significance of this remarkable necropolis, offering insights into the beliefs, customs, and achievements of one of the world's most enduring civilizations.
10 interesting facts about Hatshepsut's Temple
Here are ten fascinating facts about Hatshepsut's Temple, also known as Djeser-Djeseru:
1. Architectural Marvel: Djeser-Djeseru is considered one of the most impressive architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. Carved into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari near Luxor, the temple blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings, showcasing the mastery of ancient Egyptian builders.
2. Dedicated to Amon-Ra: The temple was primarily dedicated to the god Amon-Ra, one of ancient Egypt's most important deities associated with kingship and the sun.
3. Innovative Design: Architect Senenmut designed Djeser-Djeseru with a unique three-tiered structure, featuring colonnaded terraces and ramps that ascend towards the sanctuary. This design was revolutionary for its time and served as a model for later mortuary temples.
4. Relief Sculptures: The temple's walls and columns are adorned with intricate relief sculptures depicting scenes from Hatshepsut's life, including her divine birth, coronation, and expedition to the Land of Punt. These reliefs provide invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian art, culture, and religious beliefs.
5. Obelisks: Djeser-Djeseru originally featured two massive obelisks at its entrance, carved from a single piece of red granite. One of these obelisks, known as the Lateran Obelisk, was later transported to Rome and erected in the Piazza San Giovanni in Laterano.
6. Destroyed Statues: Following Hatshepsut's death, many statues and inscriptions depicting her were defaced or destroyed, mainly by her successor Thutmose III. Despite these efforts, some statues and reliefs at Djeser-Djeseru survived relatively intact, providing valuable evidence of Hatshepsut's reign.
7. Sphinxes: The entrance to Djeser-Djeseru was once flanked by sphinxes, mythical creatures with the body of a lion and the head of a human. These sphinxes symbolized royal power and protection and guided visitors towards the temple's grand entrance.
8. Hieroglyphic Inscriptions: The walls of Djeser-Djeseru are adorned with hieroglyphic inscriptions detailing Hatshepsut's accomplishments, divine lineage, and offerings to the gods. These inscriptions served both religious and propagandistic purposes, legitimizing Hatshepsut's rule and commemorating her achievements for eternity.
9. Restoration Efforts: In the 20th century, extensive restoration work was undertaken to preserve and protect Djeser-Djeseru from the ravages of time and environmental factors. These efforts have helped ensure the survival of this magnificent temple for future generations to appreciate and admire.
10. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Along with other monuments in the vicinity, Djeser-Djeseru is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding universal value and cultural significance. It continues to attract visitors from around the world, who marvel at its beauty, craftsmanship, and historical importance.
Tips for visiting Hatshepsut's Temple & the Valley of the Kings
Here are some additional tips to know before visiting the Temple of Hatshepsut:
⪢ Dress Code: Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This is respectful of the local culture and protects you from the sun.
⪢ Sun Protection: The Egyptian sun can be intense, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
⪢ Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the hot summer months. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently.
⪢ Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential as there are steps and uneven terrain within the temple complex.
⪢ Photography: While photography with mobile phones is generally allowed, professional photography equipment might require permits in Egypt. Check with the authorities beforehand. The use of drones are not permitted.
⪢ Guides: Consider hiring a local guide, or taking a tour, for a more in-depth understanding of the temple's history and significance. They can offer insights that enrich your experience.
⪢ Respect the Site: The Temple of Hatshepsut is a sacred place for many Egyptians. Be mindful of your behavior and avoid climbing on structures or causing any damage.
⪢ Bargaining: If you encounter vendors selling souvenirs or other items, be prepared to bargain for fair prices. This is a common practice in local markets.
⪢ Currency: Carry Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for entrance fees, purchases, and tipping. ATMs are available in Luxor city.
Hatshepsut's Temple opening times & best time to visit
⪢ Opening times for the Temple of Hatshepsut
It's important to note that these are the typical opening hours. Always check with the official website closer to your visit, as times might occasionally change due to special events or holidays.
● Summer: 6am to 6pm
● Winter: 6am to 5pm
● Ramadan: 6am to 5pm
⪢ Best time to visit the Temple of Hatshepsut
Summer in Egypt typically lasts from May to October. It's the hottest period, with average temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) and sometimes soaring as high as 40°C (104°F) in some areas. Winter falls between November and April. Winters are generally mild, with average minimum temperatures around 14°C (57°F), although nights can get cooler, especially in the desert regions.
It's important to note that Egypt has an arid desert climate, so even in winter, days are usually sunny and warm. However, the significant difference lies in the peak summer heat, which can be quite intense for some travelers.
● For Pleasant Weather: Shoulder Seasons (March-April & October-November) offer the most comfortable temperatures, with average highs ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This makes sightseeing and exploring much more enjoyable without the scorching summer heat.
● Avoiding Crowds: Regardless of the season, arriving at the Temple of Hatshepsut early in the morning allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
● Less Popular Months: Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or even the winter months (November-February) if you prefer minimal crowds. While the weather might be cooler, it's still generally pleasant for sightseeing.
● Special Events: Some nights during the full moon, the temple is illuminated (opening hours extended), creating a truly magical atmosphere. Check for specific dates and availability beforehand.
Getting tickets for Hatshepsut's Temple
You can also purchase tickets directly at the Temple of Hatshepsut's ticket office upon arrival. This might involve waiting in line, especially during peak season.
⪢ Foreigners
● Adults: EGP 240 ($5 USD / $6.84 CAD / £3.99 GBP)
● Student: EGP 120 ($2.50 USD / $3.42 CAD / £1.99 GBP)
⪢ Egyptian Nationals / Arabs
● Adults: EGP 40
● Student: EGP 20
** Prices are correct at time of writing (May 2024). Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
One of the best ways to visit the Valley of the Kings is by taking a tour. We highly recommend using Klook, who have been operating tours for several years in Egypt using only highly trained, licenced operators who take care of all ticket entries, along with helping you to avoid the hawks. They will organise transport, give you great history and background and even organise lunch too. Check out our tour from Hurghada to Luxor and see what you think!
How to get to Hatshepsut's Temple
The Temple of Hatshepsut is situated on the west bank of the Nile River, across from Luxor city. There are several transportation options available:
⪢ Taxi / Uber
Taxis are readily available in Luxor and can be a convenient way to get directly to the temple. Agree on the fare beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings. Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem operate in Luxor and might offer a more cost-effective option compared to taxis.
⪢ Local Bus
Public buses are a budget-friendly option, but keep in mind that schedules and routes might be less frequent or direct compared to taxis or ride-sharing.
⪢ Day Trip Tours
Many travel agencies in Luxor offer organized day trips to the Temple of Hatshepsut, which often include transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes even a guided tour. This can be a convenient option if you prefer a hassle-free experience.
⪢ Car Rental
Renting a car in Luxor gives you flexibility, but make sure you factor in parking fees and potential traffic conditions near the temple. Foreign drivers must have an International Driving Permit available on request.
Address: Al Qarna, Luxor Governorate 1340420, Egypt
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A spectacular ATV tour of the epic El Gouna desert including a visit to a Bedouin village & one of the best sunset moments we have ever had!
Our Hatshepsut Temple experience rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Hatshepsut stands as a unique figure in ancient Egyptian history, challenging traditional gender roles and leaving behind a legacy of innovation, prosperity, and architectural splendor. Her Temple of Hatshepsut remains a testament to her greatness, and it certainly captivated us with its timeless beauty, serving as a reminder of her enduring influence on the world of antiquity.
Despite all of the attempts to deface the temple, the botched renovations and the affects of mass tourism, this site holds an atmosphere and experience that is unlike almost anything else we have seen. We got 'that' feeling here, one of marvel and awe. No doubt you will too!
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