Tomb of Nefertari
QV66
The Tomb of Nefertari is a notable burial site located in the Valley of the Queens near Luxor, Egypt. It represents ancient Egyptian artistry and their deep reverence for the afterlife. The Tomb of Nefertari tells us about the queens’ life, beliefs, and legacy. On March 1st, 2024, Nefertari’s tomb was closed for an unspecified time.
A Brief Reign
Nefertari, which means “The most beautiful”, was the Great Royal Wife of Ramesses II, one of the most powerful pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. During the 19th dynasty of the New Kingdom period (1295–1255 BCE), it was marked by prosperity and cultural flourishing. Nefertari admired not only for her beauty but also for her intelligence, influence, and devotion to her husband and the gods.
The Location: QV66
The Tomb of Nefertari is an important burial site located in the Valley of the Queens, on the west bank of the Nile River near Luxor. During the New Kingdom period, this valley was considered sacred and served as the final resting place for many queens, princesses, and other royals. The Tomb of Nefertari is respected among all of Egypt’s burial sites.
Luxor Tours & Activities
Looking to save some costs on your travel? Why not join a shared group tour to explore Luxor, Egypt? Here are some activities you might be interested in:
The Layout and Design
The Tomb of Nefertari, QV66, is famous for its intricate design and stunning beauty. It is built into the cliffs of the Valley of the Queens and composed of several chambers and corridors that lead further into the earth. The entrance passage goes into the tomb’s antechamber, followed by a vestibule and the burial chamber itself.
Scenes from Nefertari’s life, her journey through the afterlife and her interactions with various deities are depicted on the walls of the tomb.
The ceilings feature astronomic motifs that demonstrate the ancient Egyptians’ sense of the cosmos and their belief in the divine essence of the heavens.
Decorations and Rituals
The Tomb of Nefertari adorned with artistic motifs that feature the depiction of divine beings from the Egyptian pantheon. The gods Osiris, Isis, Anubis, and Hathor are among the most notable figures portrayed in the tomb’s wall paintings. These gods play crucial roles in guiding and protecting the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.
Osiris, the god of the underworld and afterlife, is shown judging scenes. He weighs the heart of the deceased against the feather of Ma’at, the goddess of truth and justice. Isis, Osiris’ wife and mother of Horus, is revered as the divine mother who offers protection and assistance to the deceased during their journey through the underworld.
Anubis, the jackal-headed god of embalming and mummification, oversees the process of preserving the body and preparing it for the afterlife. Hathor, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, welcomes the deceased into the afterlife with her nurturing embrace. She ensures their eternal happiness and well-being.
Nefertari's tomb influenced art and culture
Nefertari’s tomb is known for having the best-preserved and most beautiful paintings of any Egyptian burial site. The walls of the tomb depict Nefertari’s journey to the afterlife, with intricate scenes guided by various guardian spirits and deities, such as Isis, Hathor, and Osiris. These paintings are referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of Egyptian history” and serve as a visual roadmap to eternity. The exquisite lines, vibrant colors, and attention to detail in these paintings have inspired generations of artists, and Nefertari’s face, captured with grace and intelligence, remains an enduring symbol of beauty and femininity.
Legacy of Love and Devotion
Nefertari’s tomb is a testament to the eternal love story between her and Pharaoh Ramesses II. Their union went beyond politics, and their images represent closeness that lasts forever.
Nefertari’s influence extends beyond her era and has inspired countless admirers and scholars. Her tomb is not just a burial site; it is proof of human creativity and the search for supremacy.
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