Amarna Tomb 5

Amarna Tomb 5 is a rock-cut burial chamber with a T-shaped layout typical of New Kingdom tombs, featuring an outer passage leading to an inner sanctum where the deceased was placed. The interior walls are carved with detailed scenes showing daily life, religious ceremonies, and the tomb's owner Penthu, who served as Chief of Physicians under Pharaoh Akhenaten.

This tomb was built during the 18th Dynasty under Pharaoh Akhenaten, a period of major religious change when the ruler promoted worship of the sun god Aton. Penthu, buried here, was a high-ranking official whose career reflects this important turning point in Egyptian history.

The north wall shows Akhenaten and Nefertiti approaching the temple with three daughters, reflecting how the royal family displayed their bond with religious life. These scenes reveal how the pharaoh and his wife brought their authority and beliefs into everyday moments together.

The interior is relatively compact and straightforward to navigate, with chambers arranged at ground level without steep stairs or major obstacles. Visiting early in the day is recommended, as natural light is better for viewing the wall carvings and crowds are generally lighter at that time.

The south wall contains a rare dining scene where Akhenaten wears a khat headdress while eating fowl and Nefertiti drinks from a vessel. This intimate portrayal is striking because most tomb scenes show formal, ceremonial moments rather than everyday activities like eating together.

GPS coordinates: 27.66170,30.90560

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:01