Medinet Habu

Medinet Habu is the mortuary temple of Ramesses III, at the southern end of the Theban necropolis on Luxor’s West Bank. It is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt and often less crowded than the big sites nearby. The complex sits inside a massive mud-brick enclosure wall, entered through a fortress-like gateway, and also includes an earlier small temple built by Hatshepsut and Thutmose III.

What to see

• The High Gate, a tall gateway modelled on a Syrian fortress, with rooms that Ramesses III may have used.
• The first pylon, carved with huge scenes of the king smiting his enemies.
• Battle reliefs on the outer walls showing Ramesses III’s wars against the Libyans and the Sea Peoples, one of the earliest depictions of a naval battle.
• The courts, with Osiride statues of the king and ceilings and columns that keep much of their original colour.

Visiting tips

Allow one to two hours. Light is best in the early morning or late afternoon, and the site is rarely crowded at either time. It combines well with the Valley of the Queens, Deir el-Medina and the Colossi of Memnon, which are all nearby.

Getting there

Cross to the West Bank by the ferry from the Corniche or the road bridge south of Luxor, then take a taxi. Most West Bank tours can include Medinet Habu on request. Buy your ticket at the site.

Last checked October 2026. Sources: egymonuments.gov.eg, mota.gov.eg, egyptindependent.com.