The Temple of Hatshepsut, Luxor

The Temple of Hatshepsut (“The Holy of Holies”) is one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt. It’s perhaps even one of the most beatiful temples in the world, The temple is built in the 15th century BC. This is probably the most astonishing place to visit near the first historical capital of Egypt – Thebes (Luxor). Hatchepsut’s name means “First Among Noble Women”. Today she is remembered as one of the most successful pharaohs of ancient Egypt.

The Temple of Hatshepsut have taken 15 years to complete. The construction of the temple was overseen by Senenmut. He was Hatshepsut’s royal architect, her daughter’s teacher, and, according to some, her lover. Hatshepsut was elevated to the position of God’s Wife of Amun. This was the highest honor a woman could attain in Egypt after the position of queen.

The 22 year reign of Hatshepsut is generally regarded as one of Egypt’s most prosperous, and major accomplishments were achieved by her. She became her stepson’s Thutmose III regent, controlling the affairs of state until he came of age. In the seventh year of her regency she broke with tradition and had herself crowned pharaoh of Egypt. After her death, her stepson had all evidence of her reign destroyed by erasing her name and having her image cut from all public monuments. Hatchepsut’s existance was proven only in 19th century CE.