ترجمة‭: ‬مريم‭ ‬رجب

Luxor is renowned not only for its

legendary temples and tombs, but also for several historic residences linked to Egypt’s modern royal family. Among these stands the Mariouteya Palace, a unique royal retreat that combines elegance with Upper Egyptian charm, and remains a silent witness to an important era in the 19th century.

The palace was built during the late years of the Muhammad Ali dynasty, when Prince Hassan Toson Pasha chose the banks of the Nile in ancient Thebes as the site of his winter residence. At that time, Luxor had become a popular destination for European aristocrats and travelers, inspiring the prince to construct a palace blending traditional rural Egyptian architecture with the European influences that were beginning to shape Egypt’s modern identity.

The design of the palace is distinguished by its graceful simplicity: high ceilings for natural ventilation, wooden windows overlooking palm groves and the Nile, and spacious courtyards surrounded by gardens. Its proximity to the Theban Necropolis made the palace a base for major archaeological expeditions in the 19th century, hosting several explorers and scholars whose work revealed the treasures of ancient Egypt to the world.

The palace also welcomed dignitaries who visited Luxor, especially royals and statesmen escaping the winter chill of northern Egypt. Its significance continued into the early 20th century, even as modern development grew around it, allowing the palace to retain its serene and historic character.

Today, the Mariouteya Palace remains one of Luxor’s lesser-known architectural gems, yet it represents an important chapter in the city’s modern history. It stands as a bridge between two worlds: the legacy of Egypt’s royal family and the timeless heritage of ancient Thebes.