Father of the famed “heretic Pharaoh,” Akhenaten, and grandfather to the famous King Tut, Amenhotep III was one of Kemet's (Egypt’s) greatest Neswet's "nswt-bjtj" (Pharaohs) and the most successful of the 18th Dynasty.
Amenhotep's temple is located in Nubia, in the town of Soleb, in present day Sudan and was dedicated to the Netcher (Deity), Amun Re. His wife was the powerful Queen Tiye known for her intellectual and political acumen. Amenhotep III genuinely loved and honored his wife, and regarded her as a partner in his life. He devoted a number of shrines in her honor and constructed a temple dedicated to her in Nubia in the city of Sedeinga, also in present day Sudan.
During his reign, Kemet enjoyed wealth, peace and stability. When Amenhotep III died, he left behind a country that was at the very height of its power and influence, commanding immense respect in the international world.
Queen Tiye or "Taya", as she was indigenously known, was a Kemetic Queen of Nubian descent. Although she was not of royal blood, her family was well-respected within Kemet, and she married Amenhotep III, a noble Kemetic King.
Queen Tiye governed the 18th dynasty besides her husband as a wise advisor and powerful ruler. She was not only one of Africa's greatest queens, but also one of history's most powerful women. This can be attributed to her significant influence in Kemet during her husband and son's reign. During her husband's reign, she was referred to as the "Great Royal Wife." Queen Tiye was a prominent figure in the public arena and wielded great power in administering state affairs. She was responsible for communicating with foreign rulers, and the Amarna letters are a testament to the admiration and respect bestowed upon her by foreign leaders.
The mighty Queen Tiye ruled with the same authority as a man and exercised her power in equal measure with the great kings of the ancient world. Her death marked the end of the 18th dynasty's illustrious reign and her legacy established her as one of Africa's greatest women rulers.
"I have not spoken angrily or arrogantly. I have not cursed anyone in thought, word or deeds." ~ 35th & 36th Principals of Ma'at
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