Burial site for the wives and children of the New Kingdom pharaohs, across the ridge from the better-known Valley of the Kings. Around eighty tombs have been found here, though only a handful are open to visitors at any given time.
The tomb of Nefertari — wife of Ramses II — is considered one of the finest in all of Egypt, its colours still luminous after 3,000 years. Access to Nefertari's tomb requires a separate, pricey ticket (typically around 1,400 EGP), but it is worth every pound. The paintings depicting Nefertari's journey to the afterlife are extraordinarily well preserved. Visitor numbers are strictly limited, so book early if you can.