Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia embarked on a cultural tour of the ancient Temple of Queen Hatshepsut in Luxor on Thursday, as part of their historic state visit to Egypt. This marks the first official visit by a Spanish monarch to Egypt since King Felipe ascended the throne in 2014.
The royal couple was warmly received upon arrival by Luxor Governor Eng. Abdel Muttalib Amara, alongside Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Dr. Sherif Fathy. The visit was hailed as a milestone in reinforcing the deep-rooted diplomatic and cultural ties between Egypt and Spain.
“This is a significant moment for Luxor,” said Governor Amara. “It reflects the strength of Egyptian-Spanish relations and underscores Luxor’s unique position as a global capital of cultural tourism.”
The Spanish royals’ itinerary includes an extensive tour of Luxor’s famed archaeological sites and heritage landmarks. Their visit to the Temple of Hatshepsut—an architectural marvel built for one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs—offered a window into the grandeur and legacy of Egypt’s ancient civilization.
Minister Sherif Fathy noted the importance of such high-profile visits in promoting Egypt’s cultural heritage and tourism sector. “This royal tour sends a powerful message to the world about the richness of Egyptian history and the safety and appeal of Egypt as a tourist destination,” he said.
The Luxor stop is part of a broader official program that began with the Spanish royal couple’s meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Cairo on Wednesday. That meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including tourism, heritage preservation, and economic development.
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia’s visit is seen as both symbolic and strategic—cementing diplomatic ties while highlighting the enduring allure of Egypt’s historical treasures. As the royals continue their journey through Egypt, their presence is expected to shine an international spotlight on the country’s vast archaeological wealth and its role as a living testament to human civilization.
