Valley of the Queens
This name was given because about one and a half kilometers southwest of the Valley of the Kings lie the tombs of queens from the 19th and 20th dynasties, as well as members of the royal family and princesses from the Ramesside period. The location offers natural protection from the surrounding mountains.
The site was chosen to house the tombs of the royal family, including queens, princesses, and princes, in what became known as the Valley of the Queens. Locals refer to it as Biban al-Malkat and Biban al-Harem. In the past, it was called Ta Set Neferu, meaning “Place of Beauty” and “Place of the Royal Children.” The oldest tombs date back to the 18th Dynasty of the New Kingdom and mark the beginning of the cemetery, built for the princes and princesses, sons and daughters of the kings of the New Kingdom.
These large tombs were constructed to serve as eternal royal houses for queens, wives, and royal mothers. Many tombs, especially those from Ramses II and Ramses III, are beautifully decorated.
The most beautiful and magnificent tomb is that of Prince Amun Har-Khebshef and the tomb of Nefertari Merit Mut. Recently, a joint mission with the Ministry of Antiquities discovered a new royal tomb that likely belonged to a great royal woman.