Exploring the Ancient Wonders of Luxor with Friends

Whispers of the Ancients

Today, Luxor truly felt like stepping back in time. With Lena back at the hotel, enjoying a spa day, I ventured out with my friends to explore more of the West Bank's historical treasures. Little did I know, today’s journey would be one of the most profound yet, filled with vibrant art, silent stories, and a deeper connection to Egypt's captivating past. The morning was bright, promising warmth as we set off to explore the Mortuary Temple of Seti I and the famed Tomb of Seti I in the Valley of the Kings.



Our day began, as most days do here, with a hearty breakfast at the Iberotel Luxor Hotel Restaurant. Fuelling up for a day of exploration is essential, and the hotel spread never disappoints. From fresh fruit to local pastries, it’s a perfect way to start the day.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Luxor at Iberotel Luxor Hotel, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from the city center.

With breakfast done, we took a taxi to the West Bank, eager to immerse ourselves in the day’s adventures. The air was warm, a gentle breeze rustling through the palm trees as we approached our first destination: the Mortuary Temple of Seti I. I made sure to apply a generous layer of sunscreen; the Egyptian sun is no joke, even in late March. I also had my camera ready, hoping to capture the essence of these ancient wonders. I almost forgot the extra battery, but thankfully I remembered at the last second. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

Mortuary Temple of Seti I: A Prelude to Eternity

Arriving at the Mortuary Temple of Seti I, I was immediately struck by its serene setting. Located near a palm grove, the temple exuded a sense of calm and reverence. Unlike some of the more crowded sites, this temple felt like a peaceful sanctuary, allowing for a more intimate experience. Seti I, father of the great Ramses II, began the construction of this temple, which was later completed by his son. As we wandered through the complex, my friends and I admired the exquisite reliefs that adorned the walls. The artistry was simply breathtaking. You could see the care and precision that went into every carving, every hieroglyph telling a story of gods, pharaohs, and the afterlife.


Explore the Mortuary Temple of Seti I in Luxor, a historical landmark showcasing ancient Egyptian artistry and grandeur in the heart of Al Qarnah.

Walking through the hypostyle hall, I was mesmerized by the elegant papyrus columns and the high-quality reliefs from Seti I’s reign. The level of detail was astounding. In the chambers dedicated to the Theban Triad and Osirian mortuary deities, I found myself lost in the intricate scenes depicting ancient rituals and beliefs. It’s incredible to think these images have survived for thousands of years.

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

Exploring the sanctuary area, we discovered the triple shrine for Amun, Mut, and Khons, where the deities’ barques were once housed during the Beautiful Feast of the Valley. Though the sacred lake was empty, recent excavations have revealed much about the temple’s outer complex, highlighting its enduring significance. It was fascinating to learn about the temple’s various uses over the centuries, from Roman artisans to Coptic churches. The ongoing restoration efforts by the German Archaeological Institute are truly commendable.

KV17 - Tomb of Seti I: Descending into Majesty

Next on our itinerary was the highlight of the day: KV17, the Tomb of Seti I in the Valley of the Kings. Known as Belzoni's tomb, after its discoverer Giovanni Battista Belzoni, this tomb is the longest, deepest, and most completely finished in the valley. As we approached the entrance, a sense of anticipation washed over us. This was no ordinary tomb; it was a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian art and architecture.


Explore the Tomb of Seti I in the Valley of the Kings, a breathtaking testament to ancient Egyptian artistry and burial traditions.

Before entering, we had to purchase a special ticket, separate from the general Valley of the Kings admission. Yes, it was a bit pricey, but everyone who had visited it said it was worth every penny. Descending into the tomb, I immediately understood why. The vibrant colors, the intricate details, the sheer scale of the tomb – it was unlike anything I had ever seen. The Litany of Re and scenes from the Amduat adorned the walls, guiding us deeper into the pharaoh’s journey to the afterlife. The decorations were more refined than in earlier tombs, with figures having larger ears and smaller mouths, a testament to the artistic achievements of Seti I’s reign.


The tomb stretches over 120 meters, representing the fullest development of offset royal tombs in the valley. As we walked through the corridors and chambers, I was struck by the clear division between the upper and lower sections of the tomb. The attention to detail was impeccable, with decorations covering every passage and chamber. It was the first time such complete decoration had been achieved, setting a standard for future tombs in the valley.



One of the most breathtaking sights was the burial chamber, with its astronomical scenes on the ceiling and images from the Book of the Dead covering the walls. The walls of the burial chamber are in superb condition. I was particularly captivated by the ceiling, which depicted the ancient Egyptian belief that the sun was born every day in the east and died in the west, an eternal circle of life. The sarcophagus, which was once housed here, is now in the Sir John Soane's Museum in London, a reminder of the tomb’s impact on the world.



We were lucky to visit towards the end of the day, which meant we had the tomb almost entirely to ourselves. It enhanced the experience, allowing us to take our time and truly appreciate the artistry and grandeur of the tomb. I spent a good hour exploring every nook and cranny, mesmerized by the well-preserved paintings and the sheer number of chambers. There was no glass separating us from the art, making the experience even more immersive. I could have easily spent several more hours there, discovering new details with each glance.



As we exited the tomb, I felt a profound sense of awe and respect for the ancient Egyptians and their beliefs. The Tomb of Seti I is more than just a burial place; it is a testament to the power of art, the human desire for immortality, and the enduring legacy of a great pharaoh.

A Taste of Luxor: Lunch and Local Art

By now, our stomachs were rumbling, so we decided to head to Jamboree Restaurant for lunch. Located overlooking the central square, Jamboree offered a lively atmosphere and a delicious menu. I opted for the minced beef-eggplant-onion casserole, served in a traditional tagine bowl, with steamed rice, tabbouleh salad, tahini, and bread. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploration. The food was delicious, and the friendly staff made the experience even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at Jamboree Restaurant in Luxor – where flavor meets affordability.

After lunch, we strolled through the bazaar, soaking in the sights and sounds of Luxor. We then visited Nobles Art Gallery, known for its collection of statues and objects from the first half of the 20th century. The gallery is situated at the Old Winter Palace hotel, adding to its charm and appeal. Although I was hesitant to buy anything, not wanting to carry it around for the rest of the trip, I admired the craftsmanship and the unique pieces on display. It was a great way to learn more about Egyptian art and history.


Explore the exquisite collection of antiques and art at Nobles Art Gallery, a cultural gem in Luxor, Egypt, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Dinner and Reflections

As the day drew to a close, we decided to try Tex Mex for dinner. I know, it sounds a bit out of place in Egypt, but we were craving something different. Plus, I had read good reviews about their authentic Tex-Mex cuisine. The restaurant was lively, with colorful decor and upbeat music, creating a fun and inviting atmosphere. I ordered the sizzling fajitas, and they were delicious. It was a nice change of pace from the traditional Egyptian fare, and a perfect way to end the day.


Experience authentic Tex-Mex cuisine in Luxor at Tex Mex Restaurant – where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.

Reflecting on the day’s adventures, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore Luxor’s ancient wonders. The Mortuary Temple of Seti I and the Tomb of Seti I were truly unforgettable experiences, offering a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of ancient Egypt. As I head back to the Iberotel Luxor Hotel, I am already looking forward to tomorrow’s itinerary, which includes a visit to Deir el-Bahari and Carter House. And perhaps, a relaxing evening at the Wine Palace. But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration.



Lena will be happy to hear all about it when I see her. Maybe tomorrow she will join us again. I am sure she will enjoy Deir el-Bahari. I will definitely make sure she does not miss that! Tomorrow is another day filled with even more opportunities to explore and discover the magic of Luxor.