About this place
Overview and significance
Amarna is an extensive ancient Egyptian archaeological site containing the ruins of Akhetaten, the capital city during the late Eighteenth Dynasty. The city was established in 1346 BC, built at the direction of the Pharaoh Akhenaten, and abandoned shortly after his death in 1332 BC.
History and heritage
Its historical story is also significant: amarna (; Arabic: العمارنة, romanized: al-ʿAmārna) is an extensive ancient Egyptian archaeological site containing the ruins of Akhetaten (Ancient Egyptian: 𓈌𓏏𓉐𓇋𓏏𓈖𓇳, romanized: ꜣḫt-jtn), the capital city during the late Eighteenth Dynasty. Its historical story is also significant: the name Amarna comes from the Beni Amran, an Arab tribe that settled the area before the 18th century. Its historical story is also significant: the ancient Egyptian name Akhetaten means "the horizon of the Aten".
Features and attractions
Its character is shaped by the local landscape, hotels & stays setting and what visitors can responsibly access on the ground. Follow marked routes and respect private or protected ground.
Activities and experiences
Experiences depend on season, access and available guides. Sightseeing, photography and locally organised activities are typical starting points; confirm availability before travel.
Visitor information
Check current access, fees, transport, safety and opening arrangements with the official operator or a trusted local source. Conditions can change with weather and management decisions.
This editorial information is a starting guide. Verify current visitor rules, fees and access with the official operator.