Beni Hasan, a Middle Egypt necropolis, contains 39 rock-cut tombs from the Middle Kingdom (2055–1065 BC). These tombs, belonging to provincial governors, feature vibrant paintings and inscriptions depicting daily life, military campaigns, and religious beliefs. Notable tombs, including those of Amenemhat, Khnumhotep II, and Baqet III, showcase hunting, wrestling, and governance scenes. The site serves as a vital historical and artistic record of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Beni Hasan tombs are a heavenly well of glorious souls who carved an immortal civilization across thousands of years that can be seen across the stars radiating tales of sophistication, allure, and grandeur. It is filled with well-preserved rock-cut tombs that offer a remarkable insight into the life, art, and religious & social beliefs of ancient Egyptians during the Middle Kingdom period (2055 - 1065 BC). All the magnificent ancient Egyptian tombs are filled with intricate paintings and inscriptions, providing a captivating narrative of a bygone era.
This marvelous archaeological wonder has been the source of many great facts that give a full image of the mindset and prosperity of some of the most influential people. In this magnificent marvel, everyone will witness the epic essence of this magical civilization where the secrets and echos of Egypt will be unraveled in the finest manner.
Beni Hasan is situated about 20 kilometers south of the city of Minya, in the Middle Egypt region, and 245 km south of Cairo. To reach the site, one can travel by road from Cairo or Luxor. The journey offers picturesque views of the Nile River and the surrounding landscape, showcasing the geological diversity and historical richness of Egypt.
During the historical period known as the Middle Kingdom (2055 – 1065 BC), a distinctive burial practice was observed, involving provincial governors being laid to rest in elaborate tombs that were meticulously carved into rock formations within their marvelous local cemeteries. This tradition, which originated during the First Intermediate Period (2181 – 2055 BC) and persisted through the Middle Kingdom, can be exemplified by sites like Beni Hasan.
Significant governmental reforms took place during the 12th Dynasty, reshaping the administrative structure. In the earlier days of the First Intermediate Period and parts of the Middle Kingdom, nomarchs held hereditary positions as overseers of specific regions. The authority of these local leaders was not solely reliant on the king's endorsement, as had been the case in the Old Kingdom (2700 – 2200 BC). However, in the twelfth Dynasty, there was a gradual curtailment of the nomarchs' authority, leading to the king's appointment or confirmation of provincial governors.
There are Thirty-Nine ancient tombs dating back to the Middle Kingdom which are found in the region associated with the Oryx nome, governed from the district of Hebenu. These tombs were situated on the eastern bank due to the favorable quality and positioning of the cliffs to the west. The cemetery is divided into two distinct sections found across the lower necropolis and the upper range. The arrangement of burial sites within the cemetery is a reflection of the resources that were available to the ancient deceased, with the most notable individuals interred near the crest of the cliff.
There are 888 shaft tombs within the lower cemetery that date all the way back to the Middle Kingdom period. These tombs in the modern ages were excavated by John Garstang, and shared a common architectural design featuring a recess or a small chamber at the base of the facing south shaft. This chamber was intended to house the golden coffin and offerings for the deceased. The upper cemetery was reserved for the elite class members, who constructed striking tombs as symbols of their elevated political and social status as the officials and rulers of the Oryx Nome, specifically Upper Egypt’s 16th Nome.
These opulent tombs, intricately adorned, were expertly carved into the incredible limestone cliffs adjacent to the epic provincial capital situated in the area of the upper cemetery. These tombs are aligned in a north-south orientation, divided into two clusters by a natural rock terrace, upon which the tombs open. The distinguished elite tombs typically featured an outer courtyard and a rock-hewn pillared chamber, often referred to as the chapel.
This chamber contained a shaft leading to the burial chamber itself. Many of the bigger tombs contained detailed biographical inscriptions plus intricate paintings that depicted aspects of common daily life of the ancient Egyptians and scenes of warfare. Regrettably, the passage of time has caused deterioration to many of these artworks, although many copies were produced in the 19th century. Notably, a young Howard Carter, who would later achieve fame for discovering the tomb of Tutankhamun, spent a season in 1891 crafting watercolor depictions of select tombs within this site.
Some of the most notable figures who were buried in Beni Hassan include:
Amenemhat also known as Ameny, was a prominent figure in ancient Egypt during the 12th Dynasty. Serving as the "Overlord of the Oryx nome" and chief priest under Pharaoh Senusret I, he held significant influence. He governed from Men'at Khufu, overseeing his territory from Year 18 to Year 43 of Senusret I.
Notably, he participated in key military expeditions and held esteemed titles, such as "confidential friend of the King" and "mayor of Nekheb." Although he adopted a unique royal-style dating system, it's unclear if his subjects followed suit. Amenemhat's legacy was marked by his high status, royal associations, and important roles, making him a notable figure of his time.
Khnumhotep II was a prominent figure during ancient Egypt's 12th Dynasty, holding the prestigious title of Great Chief of the Oryx nome under pharaohs Amenemhat II and Senusret II. His remarkable tomb at Beni Hasan showcases intricate decorations. Coming from a powerful family lineage centered in Men'at Khufu, Khnumhotep II held various titles like hereditary prince, royal sealer, and overseer of the Eastern Desert. He succeeded his relative Netjernakht as nomarch and built a tomb in Netjernakht's honor.
Born to Baqet and Neheri, an official, Khnumhotep II had two wives: Khety, likely part of a politically arranged marriage due to her high-ranking titles, and Tjat, potentially his true love, with more modest titles. His children included Nakht, who inherited his maternal grandfather's role, Khnumhotep IV, whose presence is mainly known from an unfinished tomb, and Khnumhotep III, who rose to prominence in the royal court. Neheri, buried in a smaller tomb at Beni Hasan, and another son who held the title of "mayor" in a neighboring region, also contributed to Khnumhotep II's family legacy.
Khnumhotep I was an important figure in ancient Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh Amenemhat I in the 12th Dynasty. He held the position of Great Chief of the Oryx nome, part of Upper Egypt. He came from a powerful family of nomarchs and officials, centered in Men'at Khufu, which continued through the 12th Dynasty. His descendants, including his well-known grandson Khnumhotep II, carried on his legacy. Notably, Khnumhotep I participated in a military expedition alongside Pharaoh Amenemhat I to protect Egypt from an unnamed enemy, likely one of Amenemhat's rivals.
This endeavor led to Amenemhat's victory and Khnumhotep's reward of titles, including "count of Men'at Khufu." Over time, Khnumhotep I accumulated additional titles such as "great lord of the Oryx nome" and "hereditary prince and count." He also held a significant position in Nekhen. Khnumhotep I was married to three women, with his main wife being Zatipy. His lineage and titles were passed down to his son Nakht and others, ultimately extending to his grandson Khnumhotep II.
The family's genealogy and significance are further explored in the context of the "Nomarchs of the Oryx nome." Information about Khnumhotep I and his family has been gleaned from inscriptions in his tomb at Beni Hasan and that of his grandson Khnumhotep II.
Baqet III was an influential figure in ancient Egypt during the 11th Dynasty (around 21st century BCE). He held several titles, including Great Chief of the Oryx nome, governor of the nome, treasurer of the king of Lower Egypt, and mayor of Nekheb. Baqet III initially remained neutral during a civil war but switched sides to support the Thebans under Mentuhotep II when it became clear they were winning. His loyalty secured his family's succession, with his likely son Khety taking over, followed by his descendants until a change in leadership occurred during the time of Amenemhat I, with Khnumhotep I assuming the governorship.
Khety was an important figure in ancient Egypt during the Twelfth Dynasty. He served as a local governor of the Oryx nome in Middle Egypt. His existence is primarily known from the decorations found in his tomb chapel at Beni Hasan. These decorations include inscriptions that reveal his name and titles. Khety held various significant titles, such as "great overlord of the entire Oryx nome," which was a prominent position among local governors of the region. He also held titles like "count," "royal sealer," "sole friend," "king's acquaintance," "overlord of Nekheb," and "overseer of troops at all secret places."
Netjernakht was an esteemed figure from ancient Egypt and is recognized through his tomb chapel situated at Beni Hasan in the central region of the country. It is widely believed that he flourished during the Twelfth Dynasty, although the specifics of his timeline and role remain subjects of contention. Within his tomb chapel, Netjernakht assumes various significant titles. He served as the supervisor of the eastern desert, alongside his roles as a mayor (HAti-a) and overseer of the priests dedicated to Horus. Moreover, he held the honorable position of "smiter of the rekhyt people."
Beni Hassan is a true lively masterpiece of art as seen across all the wall paintings that bring to life a number of scenes that showcase their achievements, activities, and religious beliefs. These intricate murals depict beautiful scenes of ancient Egyptian agriculture, hunting, fishing, dancing, and various aspects of the common daily life of these incredibly influential.
The scenes found on the tombs show spectacular meaningful scenes about the most unique details about how their society functioned, how communities governed, and how bureaucracy was executed. The skilled ancient Egyptian craftsmen and artistry on display across the walls offer a vivid portrayal of ancient Egyptian clothing, hairstyles, tools, and activities, providing a visual time capsule of the era's aesthetics.
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Beni Hassan art and wall paintings have the power to shed light on the religious significance and the funerary customs that took place during the Middle Kingdom. All the tombs contain phenomenal paintings showcasing a number of scenes of religious offerings to the ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses, rituals being performed by priests, and across the walls are the afterlife beliefs of the ancient Egyptians.
Beni hassan is a true embodiment of the dedication of the ancient Egyptians towards their religion which centered around death and moving on to the ancient Egyptian afterlife. It showcases how important was the concept of eternally preserving both the body and the soul plus providing all the deceased with all the information relating to their life and achievements. These wall depictions were intended to ensure the well-being and protection of the deceased in the divine realm and to maintain a connection with the gods.
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Out of the 39 tombs, only four are open to the public. Notable accessible tombs include Tomb 2, belonging to Amenemhat (Ameny), a nomarch under Senusret I; Tomb 3, belonging to Khnumhotep II, featuring depictions of Semitic traders; Tomb 15, belonging to Baqet III, known for wrestling scenes; and Tomb 17, belonging to Khety, displaying possible ball games. Several other tombs are closed to the public, such as Tomb 4 (Khnumhotep IV), Tomb 13 (Khnumhotep, royal scribe), Tomb 14 (Khnumhotep I), Tomb 21 (Nakht), Tomb 23 (Netjernakht), Tomb 27 (Ramushenti), Tomb 29 (Baqet I), and Tomb 33 (Baqet II), among others.
In the south section of the cemetery is a great temple made by Thutmose III and Hatshepsut, it was entirely dedicated to the goddess Pakhet the lioness goddess of war who was associated with the Greek goddess "Artemis" which would explain why the subterranean Temple is known as the cave of artemis.
The most famous and informative tombs in Beni Hassan include the following:
Amenemhat/Ameny was buried in a decorated tomb located in the necropolis of Beni Hasan. The tomb's chapel contained a large room with columns, adorned with paintings depicting scenes of wrestling, a fortress siege, a ritual "Quest to Abydos," artisans, farmers, desert hunting, and offerings. Amenemhat and his wife Hetepet were depicted on the south wall with numerous offerings.
The tomb's ceiling had three epic decorated naves, and a marvelous small cult niche on the east side possibly held a statue group of Amenemhat. A graffito in the tomb hinted at the presence of the little-known pharaoh Wepwawetemsaf, suggesting his authority might have reached Beni Hasan from Abydos, though the precise reading of the graffito is uncertain due to its lost original.
Khnumhotep II's Rock-Cut Tomb is a remarkable ancient necropolis feature. The tomb's entrance was accessed through a distinct path, flanked by dark brown boulders, leading from an open outer court down the hill to cultivated land. The tomb's design includes a columned portico and courtyard, surrounded by mud-brick walls. The portico's ceiling is curved like a segmented barrel.
The entrance to the tomb chapel bears a fourteen-line inscription detailing festal days for funeral offerings, alongside Khnumhotep II's name and titles. Inside, the main chamber features a symmetrical design with four columns supporting a segmented barrel-shaped ceiling. Painted vaults resemble tent patterns.
The chamber's light source was the portico doorway. A pivot hole remains from an inward-swinging door, adorned with prayers to Osiris and Anubis above a seated Khnumhotep II. Notable features include a small rectangular shrine on the east wall, once holding a statue of Khnumhotep II.
The main chamber displays an autobiographical account of Khnumhotep II, covering his actions, family, their relationship with the royal house, his character, and requests for offerings. The west wall depicts funeral preparations and the resurrection of the deceased, symbolized by boat journeys connecting Khnumhotep II to Osiris.
The east wall portrays Khnumhotep II hunting in marshes, safeguarding his afterlife and rebirth. The south wall is dedicated to the cult meal of Khnumhotep II and his wife Khety, showing them seated before offering tables. The shrine's placement of statues inside represents a new funerary art style of the Middle Kingdom. Notably, the tomb stands out for its depiction of the Aamu group, Asiatic nomadic traders, bringing offerings to the deceased.
The tomb of Khnumhotep I at Beni Hasan is a rock-cut structure featuring a single offering chapel with two columns, though the columns are no longer present. The chapel's painted walls have faded over time. Inside, two shafts lead to burial chambers, with only one being completed. A significant historical inscription is found on the west wall, detailing Khnumhotep I's life, while a scene depicting him hunting in marshes is shown nearby.
A faded depiction of Khnumhotep I's family, including a scene with family members and a false door, is on the north wall. The north wall also displays Khnumhotep I and his wife in front of an offering table, surrounded by workmen in various tasks, including a desert hunt. On the same wall, Khnumhotep I is shown observing marshland activities.
The east wall is dedicated to battle scenes, portraying a siege of a fortress or town with fighting soldiers and wrestlers. The south wall, though poorly preserved, shows Khnumhotep I sitting and watching various activities, including musicians playing music for him, and also standing while observing peasants working in the marshes.
Baqet III's tomb is within the family necropolis at Beni Hasan which consists of a cult chapel and an inner burial chamber, renowned for its impressive paintings. The northern wall illustrates Baqet and his wife engaged in daily activities, including hunting both real and mythical animals, as well as various artisans working.
The eastern wall portrays a fortified structure under Egyptian siege, defended by Egyptian infantry and attacked by a mixed army including Nubian bowmen and possibly Libyan slingers. This likely signifies a Theban military campaign. Additionally, the eastern wall showcases numerous wrestling techniques. Lastly, the south wall focuses on Baqet's funeral rites, accompanied by scenes of people playing senet, an ancient board game.
Khety's tomb chapel dates back to the early Eleventh Dynasty and features an entrance leading to a room with columns adorned with lotus capitals, though only solitary columns remain. The walls display various scenes, including wrestling, military drills, and a desert hunt on the eastern and northern walls.
Inside, there are 122 pairs of gladiators engaged in battle, along with depictions of defenders and besiegers in combat. The northern wall also shows barbers, carpentry, the tomb's owner and his wife, funeral rituals, weaving, board games, and performances by young women. Kheti and his wife are prominently depicted in these activities. The southern wall portrays winemaking, musical interludes, and exercises, creating a diverse and vivid array of imagery in the tomb.
Beni Hasan is an ethereal model of the ingenuity, creativity, and spiritual devotion of ancient Egyptians of the Middle Kingdom between the 21st and 17th centuries BC. Its rock-cut tombs, adorned with captivating wall paintings, offer a unique, informative, and intimate insight into the lives and beliefs of this golden ancient Egyptian civilization that flourished millennia ago.
By discovering this miraculous attraction, everyone will be transported back in time, connecting with the people who once thrived in the fertile lands along the Nile, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate and inform. Everyone will have the chance to live the most incredible and entertaining travel experience by boarding a majestic Nile river cruise and enjoying a magical Egypt vacation.
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The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.
If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.
Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.
The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.
You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.
We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.
You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.
Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.
The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.
There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.
Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.
Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.
The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.
The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.
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