Deir el-Bahari

Welcome to 'Western Thebes,' a land synonymous with the setting sun and the 'completion' of life. We are standing at the threshold of Deir el-Ba-hri, arguably the most 'picturesque' and 'astonishing' ancient site in Egypt. …

Our exploration begins at the 'lowest level,' the First Terrace. Originally, this area was 'lavishly adorned' with a 'big garden' containing exotic plants and 'basins.' Most importantly, a grand 'avenue of sphinxes' lined the…

Ascending to the Second Terrace, we find ourselves in the 'Birth Colonnade' on the right side of the ramp. This area is 'crucial' for understanding Hat-shep-sut’s claim to the throne. …

To the left of the ramp on the Second Terrace lies the 'famous' Punt Colonnade. This is where we see 'one of the most renowned achievements' of Hat-shep-sut: her 'expedition to the Land of Punt' in 1493 BCE. …

In the 'far right part of the middle terrace' (actually the far left as you face the cliff) is the 'Shrine of Hathor.' This is one of the 'largest and most important complexes' in the temple. Hathor, the 'Mistress of the West'…

The 'grand ramp' leads us finally to the 'Third Terrace,' the highest point of the temple. Here, we pass through a 'horizontal Colonnade' featuring 'Exquisite Osiride statues.' These statues show the 'characteristic physiognomy'…

Just 'next to the temple' of Hat-shep-sut, in the 'hills of Deir el-Bahari,' lies one of the 'greatest archaeological discoveries ever': the 'Royal Cache' or TT320. In the late 19th century, 'rumors of ancient treasures'…

As we conclude our 'journey through the Valley' and 'Deir el-Bahari,' we 'leave with more than just memories.' We have witnessed the 'architectural achievement' of a 'female Pharaoh' who 'stood in the shadows' only to emerge as…