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Valley of the Artisans

  • Luxor, Upper Egypt, Egypt

Last updated: 28 April, 2024

Deir el-Medina, also known as the Valley of the Artisans, was an ancient village inhabited by the skilled workers who constructed and decorated the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings and Queens. In their spare time they built and decorated their own tombs.

The site provides a fascinating glimpse into the everyday lives of ancient Egyptians outside the nobility. The well-preserved village layout, complete with homes, workshops, tombs and a temple, coupled with various personal items and ostraca (inscribed pottery fragments), offers insights into the artisan community’s lifestyle, religion, and work.

While less grand than the pharaohs’ temples and tombs, for those seeking a deeper understanding of the society behind the grand structures, Deir el-Medina is an enriching, must-visit site.

While you’re there

On the way to the tombs, look out for locals selling small statues. Ignore their claims of antiquity – they are new – but some are surprisingly well-crafted, making good souvenirs.

Logistics

Price from: £5
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The Valley of the Artisans is located on Luxor’s West Bank.

Visiting on an organised tour is strongly recommended. Guides greatly enhance your visit, providing detailed explanations about the site. They’ll also arrange all logistics including transport and tickets.

If you’re going it alone, take a taxi, bike, or a local minibus from the ferry terminal. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office near the site. Guides can be hired at the entrance.

Don’t forget to bring water, sun protection, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

When to do it

The site is open all year round, seven days a week. It’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Luxor

Luxor Day Tour to Habu Temples,Valley of the Worker & Valley of the Queens At 7:00 am Pickup from your Hotel or Nile  Cruise in Luxor by Tour guide then you will be  transferred by Private A/C Vehicle to the West Bank of the Nile where  you will visit Medinat Habu, it is an archaeological  locality situated near the foot of the Theban Hills on the West Bank of  the River Nile opposite the modern city of Luxor, Egypt. Then Continue your day Tour to Deir el Medina, known as The Valley of the worker,   Deir el-Medina is an ancient Egyptian village which was home to the  artisans who worked on the tombs in the Valley of the Kings during the  18th to 20th dynasties of the New Kingdom period (ca. 1550–1080 BC) The  paintings appear so fresh. End your day Tour with a visit to Valley of the Queens it's is a place where wives of Pharaohs were buried in ancient times.  In ancient times, it was known as Ta-Set-Neferu, meaning –"the place of  the Children of the Pharaoh", because along with the Queens of the 18th,  19th and 20th dynasties (1550–1070 BCE) many princes and princesses  were also buried with various members of the nobility. At the end of the tour transfer back your Hotel or Nile Cruise. Highlights • Visit Valley of the Queens • Visit Habu Temple • Visit Valley of workers • Private Guided Tours • No Hidden Costs • Hassle Free • One Price

Price $44

Min age 6

Rating 4.58 / 5 [34 ratings]

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  • Luxor

Enjoy a professional guided Tour to the Valley of the Queens, Valley of the Artisans "Deir el-Medina" and Madinat Habu Temple of king Ramses III. Includes pickup and drop off transfers from your hotel or Nile Cruise in Luxor, entry fees, water and a certified Egyptologist tour guide.

Price $57

Min age 6

Rating 4.77 / 5 [22 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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