Tomb of Roy
TT255
In the quiet area of the Dra Abu el-Naga necropolis on Luxor’s West Bank, there is a tomb called the Tomb of Roy (TT255). It may be small, but it is full of artistic and historical value. While it is not as famous as the larger tombs in the Valley of the Kings, it offers a unique look at the life and beliefs of an official from the 18th Dynasty. For travelers seeking an authentic experience and a deeper understanding of Egypt’s history, this tomb is a rewarding place to visit.
A Glimpse into Roy’s World
Roy lived during the time of Pharaoh Horemheb, at the end of the 18th Dynasty. This was a period of political stability after the troubled Amarna period. He held important jobs as Royal Scribe and Overseer of Crops and Livestock for the Temple of Amun. This placed him at the center of Egypt’s farming and temple economy. His wife, Nebtawy, also known as Tawy, was the Chantress of Amun. This role involved both religious duties and a high social status.
The inscriptions and scenes in their tomb show not just their high standing, but also daily life in Thebes. They depict activities like farming and the rituals for preparing the dead for the afterlife.
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:
Finding TT255: Location & Context
The Tomb of Roy is in the Dra Abu el-Naga area of the Theban Necropolis. This is a large burial ground for nobles, priests, and officials. It is quieter than the Valley of the Kings, making it a great spot for travelers who want to explore without big tour groups.
Nearby, you can visit other interesting tombs, including:
– Tomb of Shuroy (TT13) – famous for its colorful images of temple rituals.
– Tomb of Amenemopet (TT148) – features scenes of banquets and offerings.
– Tombs of Raya and Niay – recently restored and open for visitors.
These sites show the rich life of the New Kingdom beyond the royal court.
Architecture & Layout: Small but Significant
The tomb, measuring 4 by 1.85 meters, is one of the smaller tombs that visitors can see. It has:
– A single decorated room carved into the rock.
– A niche at the far end with a funerary stela.
– A burial shaft to the right of the entrance that leads to the actual burial chamber.
The walls are slightly uneven with rounded corners. They were covered with a thin layer of mortar before being painted. Even though the tomb is small, the artwork is impressive. This shows that in ancient Egypt, status was represented by quality as much as by size.
The Painted World of Roy: Wall Scenes & Highlights
When you enter, you see well-preserved wall paintings that are over 3,000 years old. The paintings are arranged in sections, each telling part of Roy’s story:
– Agricultural Life: The left wall shows four sections of people plowing, harvesting flax, and leading animals. One notable scene features a man carrying a calf, which symbolizes offerings to the gods.
– Religious Imagery: Friezes of Hathor heads and Anubis jackals line the tops of the walls, providing a sense of divine protection.
– Funerary Rituals: You can see scenes from the Book of Gates alongside images of Roy and Nebtawy before gods like Nefertem and Ma’at.
– Banquet and Offering Scenes: Tables filled with bread, beer, and flowers display the hope for eternal sustenance in the afterlife.
The ceiling is also impressive, with painted geometric patterns in bright colors. It features colorful rectangles and small floral designs separated by a central yellow band. The colors remain vivid, showing the skill of New Kingdom artists.
Why TT255 Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary
The Tomb of Roy shows us that history isn’t just about big monuments. In a space no larger than a modern living room, you can connect with the art, beliefs, and daily life of a man who lived over three thousand years ago. The small size of the room, the bright colors, and the quietness of the area create a personal experience, making it feel like Roy is welcoming you into his resting place.
For travelers looking for genuine experiences in Egypt, TT255 offers:
– Historical significance without being overwhelming.
– Artistic skill in a small area.
– A calm alternative to the crowded royal tombs.
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