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Valley of the Nobles

The Valley of nobles lesser known but deeply fascinating archaeological site holding rich history about the nobles, workers, governors and administrators tombs is located in an area called Sheikh Abd El-Korna in luxor on the west bank of Nile. Let’s explore the rich history, highlights and travel tips about the valley of nobles in this blog.

History of Valley of Nobles

This valley is devoted to building the tombs for the non royal but high rank officials, priests, workers and scribes during the New Kingdom almost from the 18th to 20th dynasty. The final resting place for these individuals that are not divine rulers but have played a vital role in the administration, religious and artistry of the kingdom. Their tombs explain their status, beliefs and personal achievements. It holds at least 415 tombs and some of them are providing priceless information.

Where is the Valley of Nobles ?

The valley is located on the hillside of the Sheikh Abd el-Qurna, el-Khokha, Qurnet Murai, and Asasif on the west bank of the Nile river across from the city of Luxor. It's almost 6 km away from the valley of kings and lies between the Ramesseum and Hatshepsut temple. A great addition to a historical tour in Upper Egypt. This site is less crowded and offers a peaceful experience to explore the rich history of Egypt. 

What is the difference Between the valley of kings and the valley of nobles ?

The valley of kings was devoted to the pharaohs, their tombs were loaded with treasures and art inside the tombs is about the afterlife journey. While the valley of nobles was devoted to non-royals and high rank officials, their tombs were less loaded with treasures and art inside the tombs is about everyday life rather than the afterlife journey. This difference of art and inscription makes this valley more attractive to historians for understanding the ancient Egyptian non-royal society.

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Art and inscription inside the tombs

The most vital thing inside the tombs is artwork that gives you a window to see ancient Egyptian society. The artwork on walls showcases the images of the markets, farming, music, family life, and spiritual rituals, an unparalleled insight into ancient Egyptian society beyond royalty. Following are the some top tombs in the valley of nobles according to the artwork:

• Tomb of Sennefer (TT96):

This tomb is famous for its grapevine-covered ceiling. This tomb is also called tomb of vines and its decoration is like a garden which makes it a favorite among the visitors. 

• Tomb of Rekhmire ( TT100):

This vast tomb of the vizier of Tuthmosis III and Amenhotep II filled with the scenes of foreign delegation tributed to Egypt. The scene of craftsmanship, constructions and public ceremonies are also artworked inside this tomb. 

• Tomb of Ramose (TT55):

This tomb of an ancient vizier has thirty two columns in the main room and eight columns in the corridor. It showcases the artwork of both classic and Amarna styles. The half of the tomb is decorated with the classic traditional theban style and the other half of the tomb is rendered with the Amarna style artwork.

• Tomb of Menna ( TT69):

The tomb of an official who is also known with the title of Overseer of Fields of Amun. Its tomb is decorated with the scene of daily labour and agriculture. The artwork shows the details related to the farming on the valley of Nile. 

• Tomb of Nakht(TT53):

  A tomb of a scribe and astronomer of Amun, an official person during the reign of Thutmose IV. Tomb features the scenes of banquets, music, and stargazing. It also attracts history lovers to study the life of an ancient Egyptian scholar. 

Every tomb in the valley of nobles provides you with unique and cultural information related to the owner. Although tombs are smaller in size than the grand tombs of pharaohs but fully loaded with unique and helpful ancient information. 

How to visit the valley of Tombs:

The valley is almost 6 km away from the valley of kings and easily accessed by any private car and Taxi. You have to buy the ticket for accessing the tomb as with a normal ticket you can access two tombs while different tombs have different prices in between EGP 120 to EGP 200. Try to visit the valley in the early morning in summer to beat the heat and crowds. Bring a water bottle, sun hat and glasses with you for a comfortable walk. Hire a tour guide for enhancing an experience and rich history. 

The tomb did not have the golden coffins like Tutankhamun and vast chambers like Ramses II tomb but provides you with rich information about the ancient Egyptians who made ancient Egypt function and flourish.