Tt184

TT184 Luxor Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to TT184 in Luxor

Located within the renowned Theban Necropolis on Luxor’s West Bank, TT184 stands as an exceptional relic of Egypt’s New Kingdom, offering visitors a rare look into the lives, beliefs, and artistry of ancient Egyptian elites. The tomb, constructed for Nefermenu—a high-ranking official during the reign of Ramesses II—reflects the intricate blend of civic duty and religious devotion characteristic of New Kingdom society. TT184’s proximity to other archaeological wonders such as the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut makes it a must-visit for those eager to explore Luxor’s historical sites. (Rough Guides, Earth Trekkers, Smithsonian Magazine)

TT184’s Historical and Cultural Importance
Nefermenu: Owner and Administrative Roles
Architectural and Artistic Features
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Travel Tips
Photography Guidelines
Guided Tours and Self-Exploration
Nearby Attractions
Responsible Tourism and Site Conservation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations
References

TT184’s Historical and Cultural Importance

TT184 is embedded in the Dra Abu el-Naga necropolis, a section of the Theban Necropolis famed for housing tombs of high officials from Egypt’s New Kingdom. The Theban Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the principal burial ground for royalty and nobility, reflecting ancient Egyptian beliefs about death, rebirth, and the afterlife. The necropolis is divided into several key areas, including the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Tombs of the Nobles, and Deir el-Medina, each offering a unique perspective on ancient Egyptian society and mortuary traditions. (World History Edu, Explore Luxor)

Nefermenu: Owner and Administrative Roles

Nefermenu, the tomb’s owner, was a distinguished statesman during the reign of Ramesses II (19th Dynasty, c. 1279–1213 BCE). He held several important titles, including:

Mayor of Thebes
Royal Scribe
Overseer of the Granaries of Amun
Steward of Amun
Overseer of the Granaries of All the Gods of Upper and Lower Egypt
Overseer of the House of Silver and Gold
Chief Taxing Master of the Lord of the Two Lands
Feast Leader of All the Gods in Thebes

His wife, Mery(nebu), depicted as a “Songstress of Amun,” played a vital role in temple rituals. The couple’s status is reflected in the tomb’s size, quality of decoration, and the prominence of their depictions in funerary scenes. (Smithsonian Magazine)

Architectural and Artistic Features

Location and Layout

TT184 is carved into the limestone cliffs of the El-Khokha hillock, following the Ramesside-era T-shaped plan:

Open Courtyard: Framed by mudbrick walls, the entrance is flanked by niches, likely for statues or stelae.
Transverse Hall: Features painted reliefs and a niche containing statues of Nefermenu and his wife.
Inner Chamber: Decorated with scenes of divine encounters, funerary rituals, and symbolic motifs.

Stylistic and Decorative Highlights

False Door: Symbolizing a portal for the deceased’s spirit.
Architrave and Cornice: Reflect temple architectural elements.
Polychrome Wall Paintings: Depict funerary spells (e.g., Book of the Dead Spell 145), offerings, and interactions with deities such as Osiris, Horus, and Thoth.
Ceiling Motifs: Starry blue backgrounds represent the cosmic heavens.
Floral and Geometric Designs: Lotus and papyrus motifs reflect themes of rebirth and eternal life.
Hieroglyphic Inscriptions and Amulets: Emphasize protective and spiritual functions.

The artistry and symbolism of TT184’s decorations offer rich insight into New Kingdom religious beliefs and funerary practices. (Smithsonian Magazine)

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Visiting Hours

TT184 is typically open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Seasonal changes or conservation activities may alter these hours, so it is advisable to verify the current schedule with the official Luxor Antiquities office or local guides before your visit.

Ticket Information

Single-Tomb Ticket: Approximately 100–150 EGP (~$6–$9 USD).
Combined Ticket: Around 200 EGP (~$12 USD), covering several tombs within Dra Abu el-Naga.
Luxor Pass: Provides multi-site access (Standard and Premium versions), ranging from $100–$200 USD.
Discounts: Available for students and seniors with valid ID.

Tickets are available at the Luxor West Bank ticket office or the Dra Abu el-Naga entrance. For multiple sites, the Luxor Pass offers convenience and savings. (Earth Trekkers, Rough Guides)

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Terrain: The tomb site requires walking over uneven ground and navigating stairs; comfortable shoes are recommended.
Facilities: Restrooms and a small café are available at the main visitor center; limited amenities at the tomb itself.
Transport: Reachable by taxi, minibus, or organized tour from Luxor city center (about 30 minutes’ drive).
Best Time to Visit: October to April offers the most comfortable weather; early mornings and late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and heat.
Accessibility: Limited for visitors with mobility issues; contact local guides or tour operators for assistance if needed. (Earth Trekkers)

Photography Guidelines

Photography: Generally permitted without flash; a special photo pass (approx. 300 EGP) may be required for non-flash photography.
Prohibited: Flash, tripods, and touching the artwork are strictly forbidden to protect the tomb’s delicate surfaces.
Best Spots: The necropolis surroundings offer excellent views of the Nile and desert landscapes, especially in early morning or late afternoon. (Rahtours)

Guided Tours and Self-Exploration

Guided Tours: Highly recommended for historical context, art interpretation, and language translation. Licensed Egyptologist guides can be booked via hotels or tour agencies.
Self-Guided Visits: Bring a reputable guidebook or audio guide, as onsite information is limited.

Nearby Attractions

Valley of the Kings: Tombs of pharaohs including Tutankhamun.
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut: Architectural marvel of Queen Hatshepsut.
Ramesseum: Mortuary temple of Ramesses II.
Karnak and Luxor Temples: Key religious centers on the East Bank.
Lost City of Aten: Recently unearthed ancient city. (Smithsonian Magazine)

Responsible Tourism and Site Conservation

Support Local Communities: Choose locally owned accommodations, restaurants, and shops to benefit the Luxor community. (EcoFriendly Travels)
Environmental Responsibility: Use refillable water bottles, dispose of trash responsibly, and remain on marked paths.
Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly, ask permission before photographing locals, and respect local customs.
Preservation: Adhere to site rules and support heritage organizations to help protect TT184 for future generations.
Hire Local Guides: This enhances your visit and contributes to the local economy. (Rahtours)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for TT184?
A: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily; check for seasonal adjustments or conservation closures.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: 100–150 EGP for a single tomb; combination tickets and Luxor Pass available for multi-site visits.

Q: Is TT184 wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is limited due to uneven terrain and stairs; contact guides for assistance.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-flash photography with a photo pass; flash and tripods are prohibited.

Q: What is the best season to visit?
A: October to April for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

A visit to TT184 offers a unique window into the grandeur and complexity of ancient Egyptian civilization. From the tomb’s vivid wall paintings and symbolic architecture to its rich historical context, TT184 is an essential stop for anyone interested in Luxor’s archaeological treasures. Careful planning regarding visiting hours, ticketing, and responsible tourism ensures a rewarding and respectful experience. Stay informed about the latest discoveries and travel tips by downloading the Audiala app and following reliable sources.

Explore TT184 and immerse yourself in the mysteries of ancient Luxor—an unforgettable journey through time awaits. (Smithsonian Magazine, Rough Guides, Earth Trekkers)