53. EGP:Luxor - Valley of the Kings plus

More temples & tombs - a tour of Valley of the Kings and Queen Hatsepshut's temple.

VofK:
During Egypt's New Kingdom (1539-1075 B.C.), the valley became a royal burial ground for pharaohs, queens, high priests, and other elites of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties, thus becoming known as the Valley of the Kings. It is home to more than 60 tombs, including Tutankhamun (as in King Tut), Ramses II, and Seti I. The walls are adorned with hieroglyphics and colorful artwork that tell stories about ancient Egyptian life.

Queen H's Tomb:
Upon the death of her husband (who was her half-brother), Harshepsut ruled initially as regent to her 2 year old stepson, assuming the position as official pharoah several years later. In order to establish herself in the Egyptian patriarchy, she took on traditionally male roles and was depicted as a male pharaoh, with physically masculine traits and traditionally male garb. Hatshepsut's reign was a period of great prosperity and general peace.Read more