Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Friends

Whispers of Pharaohs

Today, Lena and I, along with our friends, ventured deeper into the Valley of the Kings, seeking to understand more about the lives and beliefs of pharaohs long past. The heat was intense, but the allure of ancient mysteries kept us going. It was a day of exploration, reflection, and a little bit of modern-day relaxation.

Our day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at the Iberotel Luxor Hotel Restaurant. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the West Bank, specifically the tombs of Ramses IV and Ramses IX. The Valley of the Kings, even on a bright Thursday morning, held an air of solemn mystery.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Luxor at Iberotel Luxor Hotel, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from the city center.
First on our list was KV2, the Tomb of Ramses IV. The closer we got, the more excited I became. I remember reading about it back in Berlin, noting how it was open since antiquity and contained so much ancient graffiti. To actually stand before it, knowing countless others had done the same over millennia, was humbling. The tomb is located low in the main valley, nestled between KV7 and KV1. Apparently, the location was chosen by the local governor and two of the pharaoh's chief attendants in the second year of his reign.


Explore the Tomb of Ramses IV in Egypt's Qena Desert, a stunning historical landmark showcasing ancient artistry and rich Egyptian heritage.
Inside, the layout was straightforward, following a straight axis typical of the 20th Dynasty. The corridors descended gently, leading to the burial chamber. The walls were covered in inscriptions and paintings from religious texts, detailing the pharaoh's journey through the underworld. Despite its size, KV2 felt…simplistic, as if Ramses IV knew his time was short and prioritized function over elaborate decoration. It was fascinating to see the various materials that had been found inside over the years, including wood, shabtis, ostraca, faience, and glass.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

One of the most striking things about KV2 was the graffiti. Ancient Greek, Roman, and Coptic visitors had left their mark, a testament to the tomb's accessibility throughout history. It was almost surreal to see these messages alongside the ancient Egyptian art, a collision of different worlds and eras. Lena was particularly fascinated by the Coptic graffiti, noting the depictions of saints and crosses on the walls, evidence that the tomb had once been used as a dwelling by Coptic monks. I couldn't help but think of the countless stories these walls could tell, if only they could speak.

Next, we visited KV6, the Tomb of Ramses IX. This tomb felt different from the moment we approached it. Its entrance was wider and stood between the tombs of KV5 and KV55. The archaeological evidence suggested that KV6 was rushed to completion after Ramses IX's death, with many corners cut. Despite this, the tomb was still impressive.


Explore the KV6 - Tomb of Ramses IX in Egypt's New Valley Governorate, a historical marvel showcasing ancient artistry and intricate hieroglyphics.
Inside, the ceiling of the burial chamber was vaulted and decorated with stunning images of the goddess Nut. The side walls depicted scenes from the Book of Caverns and the Book of the Earth. The yellows, dark blues, and blacks used in the decorations were visually striking and unusual compared to other tombs in the Valley. It was clear that the artists had tried their best, even under pressure, to create a fitting resting place for their pharaoh.

The tomb runs 105 meters into the hillside, starting with a gate and a descending ramp, followed by three corridors. The first corridor had four side chambers, but none were decorated or finished. At the end of the corridors were three chambers. The first was decorated with the Opening of the mouth ritual, and the second contained four large columns, though neither the cutting nor the decoration work was completed. A ramp sloped down to the burial chamber, where the sarcophagus once stood. Sadly, the sarcophagus itself had vanished, but Ramses IX's mummy was found in the Deir el-Bahri cache in 1881. Like KV2, KV6 had also been open since antiquity, evidenced by the Roman and Coptic graffiti on its walls.

After a morning immersed in ancient history, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Tutti Frutti Restaurant, a local spot known for its authentic Egyptian meat dishes. The restaurant was cozy, and the hospitality was warm. We ordered a mix of grilled meats, salads, and local bread, savoring the flavors of Egypt. It was a welcome break after the intensity of the Valley of the Kings.


Discover Tutti Frutti Restaurant in Luxor - where authentic Egyptian meat dishes meet warm hospitality in a cozy atmosphere.
As the afternoon waned, we decided to embrace Luxor's modern side. We made our way to the Luxor Rowing Club, a nightclub on the banks of the Nile. Now, I know what you might be thinking: a rowing club that's also a nightclub? It seemed a bit odd to me at first, but it was something different. We figured, why not? It's supposed to be a hidden gem along the Nile, perfect for both rowing enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. I’m not much of a rower myself, but I do enjoy a peaceful place to unwind after a long day of exploring.


Discover the tranquility of rowing along the Nile at Luxor Rowing Club, where stunning views and serene experiences await every visitor.
The atmosphere was relaxed, and the views of the Nile were stunning. While Lena and our friends enjoyed the music and the vibe, I found myself drawn to the river. I watched the feluccas sail by, their white sails billowing in the breeze, and reflected on the day's experiences. The juxtaposition of ancient tombs and modern nightlife was striking, a reminder of Luxor's unique blend of history and contemporary life.

For dinner, we opted for something familiar: Italian food at Mamma Mia! Luxor. After days of exploring Egyptian cuisine, we were craving a taste of Europe. The restaurant was known for its pasta, pizza, and friendly staff. We ordered a variety of dishes, sharing them family-style, and reminisced about our adventures in the Valley of the Kings. It was a comforting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Savor authentic Italian flavors at Mamma Mia! Luxor - where every meal is a culinary journey through Italy.
As we walked back to the Iberotel, the city was alive with activity. The streets were bustling with people, the shops were open, and the air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter. Luxor at night was a different world from the quiet, dusty Valley of the Kings. It was a reminder that this ancient city was also a modern one, full of life and energy.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Colossus of Memnon on the West Bank and the Temple of Khonsu. I’m also hoping to do some shopping at Gaddis & Co. Lena is keen to see the Colossus of Memnon; she’s always been fascinated by colossal statues. As our trip nears its end, I'm trying to soak in every moment, every sight, and every experience. Luxor has a way of getting under your skin, of making you feel connected to the past and present all at once.

Back at the hotel, as I write this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with history, and an opportunity to share these experiences with Lena and our friends. And as I drift off to sleep, I know that the whispers of pharaohs will be with me, guiding me on whatever adventures lie ahead.

I am already looking forward to the next adventure.