Temple of Hatshepsut

Carved directly into the limestone cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, the Temple of Hatshepsut is an architectural miracle. Known to the ancients as Djeser-Djeseru ("Holy of Holies"), it consists of three massive terraces rising from the desert floor, connected by ramps. Built by the female Pharaoh Hatshepsut to honor her "father" Amun, it is a testament to her power and the genius of her architect, Senenmut. [1]

Quick facts Encyclopedic guide FAQ
West Bank (Deir el-Bahari) 3 Terraces Female Pharaoh

Quick facts

A fast snapshot of Hatshepsut's masterpiece—its location, purpose, and key historical details.

Location

Deir el-Bahari ("The Northern Monastery"), nestled in a natural amphitheater of cliffs on the West Bank of Luxor. [1]

Dedicated to

Amun-Ra (her divine father), Hathor (mistress of the West), Anubis (god of embalming), and the Royal Cult of Hatshepsut and Thutmose I. [2]

Construction

Built during the 18th Dynasty (c. 1479–1458 BC). Designed by the royal steward and architect Senenmut. [3]

Unique Feature

It is a "Mortuary Temple" (Temple of Millions of Years), intended for the worship of the deceased king, not a tomb (her tomb is KV20). [1]

Highlights

The Punt Colonnade (trading expedition), the Birth Colonnade, the Osiride statues on the upper terrace, and the Chapel of Hathor. [2]

Opening hours

Open daily from 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM. It is one of the hottest sites in Luxor, so early arrival is strongly advised.

Encyclopedic guide

Ascend the ramps of Djeser-Djeseru and uncover the story of the woman who became King.

The Splendor of Splendors

The Temple of Hatshepsut is dramatically situated beneath the towering cliffs of the Theban mountain. This location was chosen for its sacred connection to the goddess Hathor and its alignment with the Temple of Amun at Karnak across the river. The temple served two purposes: to provide a place for the worship of Hatshepsut after her death, and to honor the glory of Amun-Ra. [1]

Panoramic view of Hatshepsut's Temple
The three terraces of Djeser-Djeseru rising from the desert floor, with the causeway leading up the center.

Key Features

  • The Terraces: Three levels connected by central ramps. The lower courts were once planted with exotic trees brought from Punt. [2]
  • The Sanctuary: Cut deep into the rock face on the Upper Terrace, aligned to receive the first rays of the sun (and the barque of Amun). [1]
  • Neighboring Temples: To the left (south) lie the ruins of the older temple of Mentuhotep II (11th Dynasty) and the temple of Thutmose III (mostly destroyed). [3]

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to common questions about visiting the Temple of Hatshepsut.

Her successor, Thutmose III, attempted to erase her from history (damnatio memoriae) late in his reign. This was likely political—to ensure the throne passed to his son (Amenhotep II) rather than Hatshepsut's relatives, and to restore the concept of "Maat" (order) which required a male king. [2]
No. This is her "Mortuary Temple" for worship. Her actual tomb is located over the mountain in the Valley of the Kings (KV20), which she expanded to include her father's sarcophagus as well. [1]
The myrrh trees brought from Punt eventually died, but archaeologists found their dried roots still in the planting pits in front of the lower ramp. One stump is preserved behind a fence today. [3]

Sources & further reading

References supporting the historical data, architectural details, and dates presented in this guide.

  1. Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology (PCMA), Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari (Official Mission Reports). View
  2. Naville, Edouard. The Temple of Deir el Bahari. Egypt Exploration Fund, 1894-1908.
  3. Wilkinson, Richard H. The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson, 2000.
  4. Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities (Egypt), Deir el-Bahari. View

Note on visiting: Opening hours and ticket prices are subject to change by the Ministry of Tourism. Please check official sources prior to your visit.

Last updated: February 17, 2026