El Kab

At the ancient site of El Kab, explore the rock-cut tombs of the early Eighteenth Dynasty and admire the stunning reliefs and inscriptions that tell the stories of the nobles. You will be accompanied by an Egyptologist guide who will explain the history and significance of this site, which was once the city of Nekheb, the home of the goddess Nekhbet, the protector of Upper Egypt. El Kab is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Egypt and offers a unique glimpse into the ancient culture and religion of this country.

Some highlights of your visit to El Kab are:

• The tomb of Ahmose, son of Abana, a naval officer who fought against the Hyksos and witnessed the establishment of the new kingdom by Ahmose I.
• The tomb of Paheri, a governor and writer who depicted scenes of daily life, farming, hunting and fishing in his tomb.
• The tomb of Setau, a viceroy of Nubia under Ramses III, who recorded his military campaigns and sacrifices to the gods in his tomb.
• The Keeping Chapel of Amenhotep III, a small temple dedicated to the god Amun and decorated with scenes of the king and his family.
• The hemispéos of Ptolemy VIII and Cleopatra II, a semi-rock-hewn temple with a portico and sanctuary carved into the cliff.
• The walls of El Kab, a massive mud enclosure that surrounded the city and measured about 1.5 km by 0.5 km.