In perfect harmony with nature the temple nestles against a 280m high wall of rock. The temple rises in three terraces, which are elaborately decorated with a hypostyle  hall, pillars, statues and reliefs. The different levels are connected by a series of ramps.In the southern colonnade are the famous scenes of Hatchepsut's trading expedition to the fabulous land of Punt. The magnificent reliefs give a detailed description of this mysterious country, its fauna, flora, people and culture. The pictures of Deir el-Bahari are probably the oldest and most realistic representations of ancient east Africa in existence. Most of Hatshepsut's buildings are the work of her ingenious architect and confidant, Senenmut, to whom she entrusted the highest public offices.