Tomb of Yuya and Thuya
Monument New Kingdom Egyptian tomb of high-ranking officials
An 18th‑dynasty tomb in the Valley of the Kings near Luxor, noted for its richly furnished burial chamber; scholars and visitors study its artefacts and burial architecture.
The Tomb of Yuya and Thuya is an 18th Dynasty burial originally located in the Theban necropolis on the west bank of the Nile opposite modern Luxor. The occupants, Yuya and Thuya, were high-ranking courtiers and are known as the parents of Queen Tiye, wife of Amenhotep III.
Archaeologists discovered the tomb in the early 20th century; the burial contained well-preserved wooden coffins, funerary equipment and mummies that contributed significantly to understanding New Kingdom elite burial practices. Many of the artefacts and the mummies were later conserved and studied in museums and laboratories.
The tomb sits in the Valley of the Kings area of the Theban necropolis on the west bank of Luxor and is part of the complex of New Kingdom royal and elite burials that line the hills and valleys there.
- 1905 discovery: Discovered intact in 1905, the tomb yielded well-preserved coffins, burial furniture and the mummified remains of Yuya and Thuya, providing valuable insight into 18th Dynasty elite burials.
How to Get to Tomb of Yuya and Thuya #
Access to specific tombs is arranged through the Egyptian Museum authorities and archaeological services; the general region is in Upper Egypt and requires travel from nearby Luxor or regional transport hubs.
Tips for Visiting Tomb of Yuya and Thuya #
- Visits are usually organized through archaeological authorities - check with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism for current arrangements.
- Visit nearby tombs and museums in the region for broader context on the 18th Dynasty burials.
- Photography restrictions may apply; respect signage and official guidance.
Best Time to Visit Tomb of Yuya and Thuya #
Best visited in cooler months; access often regulated because of conservation and management concerns.
Weather & Climate near Tomb of Yuya and Thuya #
Tomb of Yuya and Thuya's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 6°C to 40°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 22°C and lows of 6°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 8°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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April
April is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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May
May is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is hot with highs of 40°C and lows of 24°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month with highs of 40°C and lows of 25°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot with highs of 40°C and lows of 25°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 8°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
