Exploring Beni Hassan

Descendants of the Bedouin who migrated to the Sahara doing the middle ages, the Beni Hassan, Egypt have a proud, warrior tradition characteristic of the ancient desert peoples.

The Catacombs

What makes this village particularly interesting, and worth a visit during Egypt luxury tours, are its amazing catacombs, which overlook the river valley. It is believed that there are 39 ancient tombs that date back from the Middle Kingdom of Egypt, which is believed to be between the 21st century and 19th century in the B.C. era. The tombs were all created with a similar design, including a carved entrance and a large room. Inside the rooms you will see Egyptian décor as well as some burial shafts. Tombs in Beni Hassan have received much attention for the high quality of their paintings.

Of these 39 tombs there are only 12 that have been decorated, since many of tombs were never finished. The best-decorated tombs belong to the tombs of governors. Only four of the 39 tombs are actually accessible to the general public. These include the second tomb, which is for Amenemhet, a governor under Sesostris I; the third tomb, of Khnumhotep II, which features a graphic depiction of caravans; the fifteenth tomb, Baqet III, which graphically depicts wrestling techniques; and the seventeenth tomb, the son of Baqet of the 11th Dynasty.

When you enter, the guard will help you up the steps and will unlock the tomb gates for visiting. Some tourists have remarked that photography is no longer being allowed. The guard also offers commentary as he points out highlights of the tomb decoration. Note that he may expect some tip money. Better give it to him or he may lock you in the tomb!

What else to See?

What else can you see in Beni Hassan? You can see the Speos Artemidos, otherwise known as the Grotto of Artemis and the Istabl Antar, is a small temple made from rock and devoted to the goddess Pakht. The temple was first constructed during the 18th Dynasty Reign of Hatshepshut and Thutmose III. The columns that support the hall are of Hathor heads, an ancient goddess that was worshiped as a cow God. You will notice upon entering that the walls of this temple are decorated with scenes of the female pharaoh Hatshepsut making sacrifices to various God, along with inscriptions of text stating how Hatshepsut helped Egypt back to prosperity after the reign of Hyksos invaders.

If you love history and seeing ancient artifacts and paintings then Beni Hassan will not disappoint. Make sure you travel to Beni Hassan during some Best of Egypt luxury tours.

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