Overview
A cliffside row of Middle Kingdom rock-cut tombs in Minya governorate, painted with scenes of daily work and sport.
Attraction
Beni Hasan
Middle Kingdom rock tombs whose painted walls show wrestling, crafts and daily work.
Photo: Olaf Tausch / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 (resized)
Why Visit Beni Hasan
The wrestling and craft scenes here are among the most famous images from ancient Egypt, and you are likely to see them with almost no one else present.
History of Beni Hasan
The tombs were cut for nomarchs - provincial governors - of the 11th and 12th Dynasties, around 2000 BC. Their decoration favours the activities of living people over funerary ritual, giving an unusually direct record of Middle Kingdom work, sport and dress.
Best Time to Visit Beni Hasan
October to April. Mornings are best, both for light and temperature.
How to Get to Beni Hasan
Near Minya in Middle Egypt, roughly 250 km south of Cairo. Reached by road, and best arranged as a private trip with a guide.
Nearby Attractions
Tours That Include Beni Hasan
Plan Your Visit to Beni Hasan
Want to include Beni Hasan in your Egypt itinerary? Browse our tours or ask for a custom plan.
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