Deir el Bahri

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The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut

Located in a natural amphitheatre in the cliffs on the west bank of the Nile lies one of the most dramatic temples in the world. The mortuary temple of Hatshepsut (Eighteenth Dynasty) was built next to that of the earlier pharaoh Mentuhotep II (Eleventh Dynasty) and in many is a reflection of this temple although much better preserved. The architecture is spectacular, and the vertical lines of the colonnades reflect the vertical patterns of the cliff against which the temple is built. The whole effect is stunning, and many have compared this temple to the Parthenon in Athens in terms of harmony and elegance.

A tree and sphinx lined avenue leads to the temple complex and the temple itself is approached through two large courts (Lower and Middle), each court or terrace being reached by ramps. Papyrus pools flanked the ramps themselves and the trees that lined the approach came from the mysterious land of Punt.

The sanctuary of Amun lies deep within the mountainside and there are other chapels within the temple:

• Sanctuary of Hatshepsut

• Sanctuary of the Sun

• Chapel of Anubis

• Chapel of Hathor

The temple as a whole is dedicated to Amun and Hathor, whom Hatshepsut claimed as her parents (in order to reinforce her claim to the throne). It comes, therefore, as no surprise to see that many of the images on the temple walls document Hatshepsut’s divine conception and upbringing. Reliefs on the south side of the Middle Court depict an expedition to the land of Punt where many exotic plants (in particular the much prized incense tree) and animals are beautifully represented. There is also a relief showing the dedication of the colossal obelisks placed at the temple of Karnak by Hatshepsut.

Much of the temple has been destroyed over time, and many of the images of Hatshepsut herself were defaced by her stepson and successor Tuthmosis III. No love was lost between these two and the story of their co-regency is fascinating. Needless to say, when Hatshepsut finally died after a 21-year reign, Tuthmosis was only too pleased to try and remove every trace of her. This included encasing her obelisks at Karnak in stone so that no one could see them. This act may have backfired as an earthquake in modern times dislodged the outer casing, revealing the superb obelisks that had been perfectly preserved.

Well worth seeing:

Tour guides tend to rush through this temple, only stopping to explain the reliefs of the expedition to Punt and the reliefs showing Hatshepsut’s divine origin – both of which are well worth seeing. However, should you get a chance you may wish to break away from the group to have a look at the temple of Hathor at the south western corner. It is really very beautiful, and many of the column capitals are exquisite. At present, much of the rest of the temple is closed for restoration. As you leave the temple, there is a wonderful view over the Nile flood plain.

Follow this link to view the Deir el Bahri photo gallery

Follow this link to view a plan of the temple

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