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Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut: A Monument to a Female Pharaoh

Explore the grandeur of the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel honoring Egypt's iconic female pharaoh, in Luxor's West Bank.

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The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, also known as Djeser-Djeseru ('Holy of Holies'), is an ancient Egyptian temple built during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut of the Eighteenth Dynasty. Located on the west bank of the Nile River, opposite the city of Luxor, it is considered a masterpiece of ancient architecture, blending seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs of Deir el-Bahri. The temple served as a tribute to Hatshepsut's reign and accomplishments, honoring her memory and asserting her power as ruler.

A brief summary to Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and climbing stairs.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the temple.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Luxor city center or Luxor train station, take a taxi to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. The ride is approximately 15 minutes and should cost around 2-3 USD (30-45 EGP). Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Ferry and Taxi

    From Luxor, take a ferry across the Nile River to the West Bank. Ferries depart regularly throughout the day. The ferry ride costs approximately 5 EGP. Once on the West Bank, hire a taxi to take you to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. The taxi fare from the ferry landing to the temple should be around 30-40 EGP.

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The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut stands as a testament to the power and ambition of one of Egypt's most successful female pharaohs. Constructed around 1479 BCE, the temple served as a mortuary for Hatshepsut and a shrine to the god Amun-Re. Its unique design, blending traditional Egyptian and classical Greek styles, sets it apart from other temples in Egypt. The temple complex comprises three grand levels, each adorned with elaborate statuary, colonnades, and architectural reliefs. The ground level features a large courtyard that once housed exotic trees and reflecting pools. A causeway lined with sphinxes leads to a ramp that ascends to the second level, which houses the chapels of Anubis and Hathor. The third level contains a large courtyard used for religious rituals, cult temples, and Osirian columns depicting Hatshepsut as Osiris, the god of the underworld. The walls of the temple are decorated with reliefs depicting scenes from Hatshepsut's life, including her divine birth, military campaigns, and trade expeditions. The Punt Colonnade narrates the story of her expedition to Punt, showcasing the valuable goods brought back to Egypt. Despite attempts by her successor, Thutmose III, to erase her legacy, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut remains a remarkable monument and a testament to her reign.

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