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The Magnificent Tomb of Queen Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens

Queen Nefertari History

Queen Nefertari was one of the most famous and powerful women of ancient Egypt. She was the wife of Ramesses II, one of the most powerful pharaohs in Egyptian history. She was also a deeply religious woman and played an important role in honoring the gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt through temples and sacred monuments.

Queen Nefertari was born in Thebes, Egypt, around the 13th century BCE. Very little is known about her early family background, as historical records do not clearly identify her parents or lineage. What is certain is that she became the Great Royal Wife of Ramesses II. Nefertari married Ramesses II in 1254 BCE when she was still very young. Together, they had six children: four sons and two daughters. Ramses II built a small temple in her honor at Abu Simbel, located beside his great temple in Aswan.

Nefertari was known for her remarkable beauty and is often depicted in ancient Egyptian art wearing luxurious jewelry and elegant clothing. She was also shown wearing detailed makeup, including dark eyeliner and vivid red lipstick. Beyond her appearance, she was highly influential at the royal court and is believed to have played a key role in many of Ramesses II’s political and diplomatic decisions.

Queen Nefertari died around 1240 BCE, although the exact cause of her death remains unknown. After her passing, Ramses II married several other wives, yet none held the same importance or emotional value as Nefertari. In her honor, he built her a magnificent tomb in the Valley of the Queens, which is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved tombs in Luxor today.

Titles of the Queen Nefertari

Queen Nefertari was one of the most influential and respected women of her time. She was not only the beloved wife of Pharaoh Ramses II, but also a powerful political and religious figure in her own right. Throughout her life, she held numerous prestigious titles that reflected her exceptional status in ancient Egyptian society.

Some of the titles held by Queen Nefertari included “The Great Royal Wife,” “Lady of the Two Lands,” “Beloved of Amun,” “Mistress of Upper and Lower Egypt,” “Daughter of Ra,” and “God’s Wife.” These titles highlight her importance as both a royal consort and a spiritual symbol within ancient Egypt.

Queen Nefertari was also admired for her elegance and grace, and she was frequently portrayed in statues and reliefs as a youthful and radiant queen. Ramses II himself is believed to have referred to her as “the most beautiful woman of all.” Her image appears prominently in the Abu Simbel complex, where several statues depict her wearing finely detailed royal garments.

The influence of Queen Nefertari extended far beyond her lifetime. She continues to be remembered today as one of the most significant and admired royal women in ancient Egyptian history.

Abu Simble Temple of Nefertari

Among the powerful women of ancient Egypt, Queen Nefertari stands out as one of the most influential. As the wife of Ramses II, she had a strong presence in royal decision-making and diplomacy. Historical evidence suggests that she was an accomplished diplomat who supported her husband in maintaining political alliances.

The Temple of Abu Simbel was built by Ramses II in honor of Queen Nefertari. Located in southern Egypt near the Sudanese border, the temple features statues of Ramses II alongside smaller yet equally elegant statues of Nefertari and their children. Inside, the walls are decorated with reliefs showing scenes of religious rituals, offerings to the gods, and moments from royal life.

The Abu Simbel temple stands as a lasting symbol of Queen Nefertari’s power, influence, and the deep respect Ramses II held for her. It remains one of the most remarkable architectural achievements of ancient Egypt.

Queen Nefertari Tomb

Queen Nefertari’s tomb is considered one of the most exquisite and well-preserved burial sites in all of ancient Egypt. Located in the Valley of the Queens, the tomb reflects her high status and her deep connection to religion and the afterlife. Nefertari was also known as a devoted supporter of art, culture, and monumental architecture.

The walls of her tomb are adorned with some of the finest surviving artwork from ancient Egypt. Brightly colored reliefs depict scenes from her life, religious ceremonies, and passages from sacred texts meant to guide her journey to the afterlife. Sculptures within the tomb portray Queen Nefertari in various roles, including queen, mother, and divine figure.

Visiting the tomb of Queen Nefertari offers a rare glimpse into the beauty, artistry, and spiritual beliefs of ancient Egypt. It allows readers and visitors alike to step back in time and appreciate the legacy of one of Egypt’s most remarkable royal women. Today, the legacy of Queen Nefertari continues to inspire history lovers and travelers interested in ancient Egypt and its monuments, often highlighted in cultural content related to Egypt tours.

Egypt Travel FAQs

Learn about our latest news, promotions, and professional tips. Know before you book your next Egypt tours

Egypt offers some of the best tours in the world, combining history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the Great Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to sailing on a luxury Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, every experience is unforgettable. You can also enjoy relaxing beach escapes in the Red Sea or discover ancient wonders on tailor-made Egypt tours that suit every traveler’s interests.

Your Egypt Tours is one of Egypt’s leading and most trusted travel agencies, known for its personalized service and expert care. As a top-rated company for Egypt tour packages, we ensure every Egypt trip is safe, seamless, and unforgettable,  offering competitive prices, excellent customer service, and the highest standards of quality. With us, you’re always in good hands.

The average cost of a one-week trip in Egypt is around 1600 USD, including visits to tombs, temples, and a Nile cruise. Prices vary depending on the Egypt tours and the level of luxury you choose.

It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Egypt, as it’s highly chlorinated and may cause stomach issues for travelers. During your Egypt tours, it’s best to drink bottled water and use tap water only for washing or brushing your teeth.
 

The best time to enjoy Egypt tours is from September to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, temperatures are ideal for sightseeing and Nile cruises. Summer (May to September) can be very hot, but it’s also a good time for budget travelers.

Egypt is generally hot and sunny most of the year, with winter falling between November and January, and summer peaking from June to August. Winters are mild, while summers can get very hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan. The pleasant weather from September to March makes it the best time to enjoy Egypt tours and explore the country's top attractions comfortably.

Yes, Egypt is a very safe country to visit, with a low crime rate and strong security measures in all tourist areas. The government ensures that accommodations and attractions remain clean and well-monitored for travelers’ comfort. When you book Egypt tours, you’ll find professional guides and organized arrangements that make your trip worry-free and enjoyable.

Egypt offers adventures for every traveler. Explore the majestic Pyramids of Giza, sail along the Nile on a Luxury cruise between Luxor and Aswan, and discover ancient temples and tombs that tell the story of the Pharaohs. Dive or snorkel in the Red Sea at Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, or enjoy a relaxing beach escape. Book one of our Egypt tours to experience the perfect mix of history, culture in one unforgettable journey.

Yes, you can, summer is still a great time to explore Egypt! While temperatures can rise to around 45°C, seaside resorts like Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Marsa Alam offer refreshing escapes with diving and snorkeling opportunities. Sightseeing in the early morning or evening helps you avoid the midday heat. Summer also brings great deals on hotels and services, making it ideal for travelers on a budget. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Egypt tours during summer can still be an enjoyable and memorable experience.

 

Egypt has a modest dress code, especially for women, since it’s a Muslim country. Light, comfortable clothing is fine, but avoid short shorts or skirts. When visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. During Egypt tours, you can dress casually and comfortably; formal wear is optional unless you want to make your Nile cruise dinner extra special.

You can easily obtain a visa upon arrival at Cairo Airport, the process is simple for USA, UK, Canadian, Australian, and European citizens. The visa costs $25 USD and can be purchased at the visa office before immigration. You can also apply for an E-Visa through the official portal: www.visa2egypt.gov.eg. During your Egypt tours, our team can assist you with all visa-related inquiries to make your arrival smooth and stress-free.

Your Egypt Tours travel agency recommends two weeks so that you can enjoy the temples and tombs of Luxor and Aswan, explore the sights of Cairo, and relax in the Red Sea islands and nature reserves.

The best Egypt Nile River cruise depends on your preferences, budget, and how many nights you wish to spend on board. For a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend a 5-star luxury Nile cruise that offers exceptional comfort and service. If you prefer a more private and intimate journey, choose a Dahabiya Nile cruise, ideal for small groups of around 15 people. For adventurous travelers, the traditional Felucca boats provide a simple and authentic way to sail the Nile during your Egypt tours, though they offer fewer amenities.

The best time to visit Egypt is generally from October to April where it is suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
 

Egypt travel usually have guided tours to archaeological sites, museums, and historical landmarks. Also have optional activities may include hot air balloon rides over Luxor, snorkeling in the Red Sea, or desert safaris.