The only female pharaoh of ancient Egypt was Hatshepsut. She ruled during the 18th dynasty and is noted for her remarkable reign, which included extensive trade expeditions and monumental building projects, including her famous mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari. Hatshepsut often depicted herself in traditional male regalia to assert her authority in a predominantly male-dominated society. Her reign is considered one of the most prosperous periods in ancient Egypt, reflecting her ability to navigate the complexities of politics and gender in leadership.