Nefertari’s Tomb
The most magnificent and beautiful of all tombs is the tomb of Queen Nefertari, QV 66. It is famous for the beauty and splendor of its design and colors. It was discovered in 1904 by Ernesto Schiaparelli.
Nefertari’s Tomb
Nefertari was the wife of Ramses II before he took over the rule of Egypt. She then became his Great Royal Wife. She died in the 26th year of the king’s reign. Ramses II ordered the construction of this tomb, which is richly decorated with images of Nefertari.
The beauty, splendor, intricate details, and colors of the tomb reflect the high status that this queen held in ancient times. Since its discovery in 1904, the tomb has been mostly closed to visitors due to restoration and preservation efforts. Only 100-150 people are allowed to visit the tomb daily.
The tomb consists of seven rooms carved into stone in the Valley of the Queens. The tomb’s contents were looted by grave robbers, including the queen’s mummy. Only some ceramic fragments remain from the queen’s granite sarcophagus.
Entering the tomb, one feels like walking into a royal palace rather than a grave, as it includes stairs, side rooms, and built-in chambers. It is composed of two levels. Most archaeologists believe that the tomb’s design closely resembles that of a palace or house.
The paintings and wall decorations tell the story of Nefertari’s journey to the afterlife. The most important scene is the depiction of Queen Nefertari herself, rendered in warm colors and exquisite detail that almost gives a three-dimensional effect. Another notable scene shows the queen playing the famous ancient Egyptian game of Senet.
The tomb is renowned for its beauty, grandeur, and the precision of its execution.