Tiye (also known as Tiy, 1398-1338 BCE) was a queen of Egypt of the 18th dynasty
Tiye, also known as Tiy, was a prominent queen of Egypt during the 18th dynasty, living from approximately 1398 to 1338 BCE. She held significant influence as the wife of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, the mother of Akhenaten, and the grandmother of Tutankhamun and Ankhsenamun.
Tiye’s influence extended throughout the courts of both her husband and her son. She was known for her diplomatic s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, often communicating directly with rulers of foreign nations. The Amarna letters, a collection of diplomatic correspondences, attest to her high regard among these rulers, particularly during Akhenaten’s reign.
Despite her adherence to Egypt’s traditional polytheistic religion, Tiye supported Akhenaten’s monotheistic reforms. It’s likely she saw these reforms as strategic moves to centralize power within the monarchy, diminishing the influence of the Amun priesthood. Tiye’s support played a crucial role in the success of Akhenaten’s religious reforms.
Tiye passed away in her early sixties and was laid to rest in the Valley of the Kings. Her mummy, identified as the ‘Elder Lady’, has been positively identified. Additionally, a lock of her hair, possibly kept as a memento by Tutankhamun, was discovered in the tomb of the young king.
Tiye’s legacy as a powerful queen, diplomat, and supporter of religious and political change continues to fascinate historians and archaeologists, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of ancient Egyptian royalty and society.