Medinet Habu

Medinet Habu is the memorial temple of Ramses III on the West Bank of Luxor, and many Egyptologists think it is the most rewarding temple on the West Bank. It is huge, well preserved and still bright with original paint, yet it sees a fraction of the crowds of the Valley of the Kings.

History

Ramses III, the last great warrior king of the New Kingdom, built it around 1170 BC. The whole complex was enclosed by massive mud-brick walls, and in later times it became a fortified town called Djeme, which lasted into the Christian period. Inside the walls stands an older, smaller temple built by Hatshepsut and Thutmose III.

What to see

You enter through a gate built like a Syrian fortress tower, the migdol. The outer walls of the first pylon show the king smiting his enemies, and the north wall has the famous reliefs of his naval battle against the Sea Peoples, invaders who swept across the eastern Mediterranean around 1177 BC. The second courtyard keeps its painted reliefs in deep blue, red and yellow. Look also for the window of appearances, where the king showed himself to his people.

Visiting

Allow about an hour and a half. It is a good choice for a second day on the West Bank, together with Deir el-Medina and the Valley of the Queens. Ask us to add it to any of our Luxor tours.

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FAQs

Who built Medinet Habu?

Ramses III, around 1170 BC.

Is Medinet Habu worth visiting?

Yes. It is one of the best-preserved and most colorful temples in Luxor, and far less crowded than the main sites.

Who were the Sea Peoples?

Seafaring invaders who attacked Egypt and the eastern Mediterranean around 1177 BC. Ramses III recorded his victory over them here.

What are the must-see attractions in Luxor?

Popular Attractions According to forum posts, the must-see attractions in Luxor include the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Luxor Temple. These sites are rich in ancient Egyptian history and architecture, offering a glimpse into the past civilizations.Additional Historical Sites Travelers have called out the Valley of the Queens, Medinet Habu, and the Colossi of Memnon as noteworthy places. The Valley of the Queens, known for its beautifully decorated tombs, and Medinet Habu, recognized for its detailed reliefs, are particularly emphasized for their historical significance.Unique Experiences For a unique perspective, some users recommend taking a hot air balloon ride over the city at sunrise. This provides a breathtaking aerial view of Luxor's landscape and major archaeological sites, offering a different vantage point compared to ground tours

What are the taxi services available in Luxor?

Taxi Availability and Pricing According to forum posts, taxis are abundant in Luxor, and travelers can expect to pay around 70LE for a trip from the Luxor bus station to the Iberotel Luxor. Users suggest starting the price negotiation at 50LE and not going beyond 70LE, although initial price quotes from drivers can be much higher.Ride-Hailing Services Some travelers mentioned using the Careem app, which operates similarly to Uber and is available in Luxor. However, there are mixed reports about the availability of cars through the app, with one user noting sparse availability in November 2021. As of the latest updates, Uber does not provide services in Luxor.Local Travel Tips For many users, negotiating taxi fares is common, and knowing approximate prices helps avoid being overcharged. Travelers also recommend using local drivers, who can be contacted via WhatsApp to negotiate prices, ensuring reliable transportation without the need for on-the-spot bargaining.

What are the walking experiences at the Avenue of Sphinxes?

According to forum posts, the Avenue of Sphinxes, also known as the Path of God, connects Luxor Temple and Karnak. It features a variety of antiquities including Roman-era wine presses and a late Pharaonic nilometer. Travelers have mentioned that the path is adorned with numerous sphinx statues and has several interpretation boards providing historical insights.Accessibility and Amenities Some travelers have noted that while the path itself is largely modern with hand-chiseled paving that blends well with the surroundings, wheelchair users might find it challenging due to some uneven sections. There are several rest stops with seating and canopies for shade along the route, although there are no toilets available except at the entrance points (Luxor and Karnak Temples).Experience and Recommendations Travelers have called out the excellent directional signage in both Arabic and English, enhancing the visitor experience. Despite the physical challenges, the Avenue of Sphinxes offers a rich walking experience filled with historical and cultural insights, making it a recommended visit for those exploring Luxor.

Is the Tomb of Queen Nefertari open to visitors?

Current Status According to forum posts, the Tomb of Queen Nefertari is currently closed for restoration. There is no indicated reopening date, which suggests that it might remain closed for an extended period.Visitor Experience Prior to Closure Some travelers mentioned visiting the tomb before its sudden closure, describing the experience as magnificent. They noted that the tomb guardian provided an exceptional tour, showcasing a deep pride in caring for the site.

What are the highlights of the Valley of the Kings?

Accessibility and Assistance According to forum posts, the Valley of the Kings (VoK) is generally accessible, with an electric train covering large segments at the entrance, making it easier for those who might find long walks challenging. Travelers have called out that tomb guardians are often available to assist visitors with mobility issues.Site Features and Recommendations Some travelers said that VoK houses over 60 tombs, featuring stunning artwork and carvings depicting ancient funeral processes and interactions with gods. Key highlights include the tombs of Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramesses V/VI. The tomb of Tutankhamun is especially famous, although it involves steps, which are facilitated with handrails.Additional Tips For many users, it's recommended to plan visits early in the day to avoid the heat and crowds. The site can be overwhelming, so taking photographs of tomb entrances has been suggested to help keep track of what was visited.

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