The royal palace was built in the 14th century BC and its ancient name was Per-Hai, "House of Rejoicing" or the Palace of the Dazzling Aten, which was one of Amenhotep III's royal epithets. Built mostly out of mud-brick, it was Amenhotep's residence throughout most of the later part of his reign. Construction began around year 11 of his reign and continued until the king moved there permanently around his year 29. Once completed, it was the largest royal residence in Egypt.

To the east of the palace a large