Unearth the Valley of the Kings’ Hidden Treasures

Step into the timeless realm of the Valley of the Kings, where the echoes of ancient pharaohs whisper secrets through the labyrinthine corridors of their majestic tombs.

Valley of the Kings is without question one of the most historically significant archaeological sites in the world, and it is one which features in nearly all of our Egypt tour packages. For roughly 200 years, archaeologists have been exploring the valley where many of Ancient Egypt’s New Kingdom kings were buried. During this time, they have discovered 62 ancient tombs in the valley, along with a number of extra tombs and tomb entrances, with the latest discovery being made in 2008.

The valley is essentially a royal necropolis that was used by the rulers of Egypt for a period of 500 years, as a gateway to the afterlife.

Resting Place of Pharaohs: The Royal Necropolis

Being a “royal necropolis” the valley was reserved for the burial of Egypt’s New Kingdom kings, including the tomb of King Tutankhamun, the tomb of King Ramses II, the tomb of King Ramses III, and the tomb of King Ramses Vi, to name just a few. The tombs of a few lesser nobles have also been discovered in the Valley of Kings, along with a funerary tomb which is believed to be the tomb in which Queen Hatshepsut was laid to rest. However, not all of the tombs in the west valley were actually used for burial purposes. Instead, several of them simply remained vacant.

The Valley of the Kings, also known as the Kings Valley, is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Luxor, drawing an average of around 5,000 visitors each day during the high season. On days when Nile River cruise ships dock in Luxor, the number of tourists can surge to as many as 9,000.

This historic site, which rivals the grandeur of any pyramid, is nestled beneath the pyramid-shaped peak of Al-Qurn. Al-Qurn, also known as “The Horn,” dominates the landscape and was likely chosen due to its natural pyramid shape, symbolizing the pharaohs’ ascent to the heavens. This iconic mountain enhances the mystique and significance of the Valley, making it a must-visit destination in Egypt.

7 Intriguing Facts of Kings Valley

1. Royal Burial Ground: The Valley of the Kings served as the primary burial site for pharaohs and powerful nobles during Egypt’s New Kingdom period (1539–1075 BCE). It is home to 63 known tombs, including those of famous pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Seti I.
2. Tomb of Tutankhamun: Discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter, Tutankhamun’s tomb (KV62) is one of the most significant archaeological finds. It provided an unparalleled glimpse into the wealth and artistry of ancient Egypt, including the famous golden funerary mask.
3. Hidden Treasures: The valley was chosen as a burial site partly to protect royal tombs from grave robbers. Despite these efforts, most tombs were looted in antiquity. However, the hidden and secluded location helped preserve several significant tombs.
4. Curse of the Pharaohs: The tomb of Tutankhamun is associated with a legendary curse. After its discovery, several members of Howard Carter’s team died under mysterious circumstances, fueling the myth that the tomb was cursed.
5. Architectural Variety: The tombs in the Valley of the Kings vary significantly in size and complexity. Some are simple single-chamber structures, while others, like the tomb of Seti I, are elaborate with multiple corridors and chambers adorned with intricate wall paintings and hieroglyphs.
6. Historical Artwork: The walls of the tombs are adorned with detailed scenes depicting the pharaohs’ lives, religious rituals, and their journeys to the afterlife. These well-preserved paintings provide valuable insights into the religious beliefs and daily life of ancient Egyptians.
7. Active Archaeological Site: The Valley of the Kings remains an active archaeological site. New discoveries continue to be made, and it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis.

These facts highlight the historical and cultural significance of the Valley of the Kings, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian history.

Unveiling the Secrets of the Valley of the Kings

Even though exploration in the Valley of the Kings started roughly 200 years ago, and despite 62 royal tombs having been discovered during this time, only eleven of them have been completely recorded. Tombs that are discovered are classified as either major tombs or minor tombs. Minor tombs generally don’t contain anything of interest. Even many of the major tombs discovered revealed very little, and quite often they have been virtually empty due to tomb robbers.

In 1907 explorers found a tomb (kv 62) which they believed was that of King Tutankhamen, but after this discovery, no other major tomb has been discovered, and in fact, by 1912, many people believed that the Valley of the Kings had been exhausted. Nevertheless, Lord Carnarvan, a wealthy British explorer was successful at obtaining a concession to continue excavating the valley. To do this he hired an archaeologist by the name of Howard Carter.

Howard Carter discovered a number of tombs in the years that followed, and in 1922 he made history when he announced that he had found the real tomb of King Tutankhamen. The inner chamber that housed the body of the king was essentially a hidden chamber and it was only opened for the first time on the 16^th of February 1923.

The Missing Mummies of Kings

Interestingly, there were no mummies found in nearly all of the tombs belonging to the great pharaohs. Many of the tombs in the Valley of Kings still had treasures and a limited amount of antiquities, but the bodies of the pharaohs had long since been removed by ancient priests in order to spare the pharaohs from tomb robbers. King Amenhotep II and King Tutankhamen were the only two pharaohs found in their tombs.

Explorers have however discovered the mummies of several pharaohs placed together in two different locations. Many archeologists also believe that there is most likely a third cache that has yet to be discovered. Sadly, all tombs discovered to date have at some point in history been entered by thieves.

Essential Visitor Information for the Valley of the Kings

Best Times to Visit: The ideal time to explore the Valley of the Kings is during the cooler months from October to April. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

Ticket Prices: General admission typically includes access to several tombs, with additional fees for special tombs like that of Tutankhamun. Tickets can be purchased on-site or as part of guided tours.

Recommended Tour Options: Opt for a private guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of each tomb. Egypt Tours Plus offers customizable tours that include knowledgeable local guides, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Valley of the Kings

Discover answers to common questions about the Valley of the Kings, a site rich in history and cultural significance.

What is the Valley of the Kings?

The Valley of the Kings is an ancient burial ground in Egypt where many pharaohs and nobles of the New Kingdom were entombed.

Where is the Valley of the Kings located?

The Valley of the Kings is situated on the west bank of the Nile River, near the modern-day city of Luxor and the ancient city of Thebes.

Why is the Valley of the Kings important?

The Valley of the Kings is significant for its well-preserved tombs and the wealth of artifacts that provide insight into ancient Egyptian civilization.

Who was buried in the Valley of the Kings?

Notable figures buried in the Valley of the Kings include Pharaohs Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Seti I, among others.

Can the public visit the Valley of the Kings?

Yes, the Valley of the Kings is open to tourists, and several tombs are accessible for public viewing.

What can visitors expect to see at the Valley of the Kings?

Visitors can explore elaborately decorated tombs, hieroglyphics, and various artifacts that have been uncovered over the years.

How were the tombs in the Valley of the Kings discovered?

The tombs were discovered through archaeological excavations, with the most famous discovery being that of Tutankhamun’s tomb by Howard Carter in 1922.

Are there any ongoing excavations in the Valley of the Kings?

Yes, archaeologists continue to conduct excavations and research in the Valley of the Kings, uncovering new findings and insights.

Discover the Wonders of the Valley of the Kings with Our Exclusive Tour Packages

Join one of our meticulously curated tour packages and experience the Valley of the Kings like never before. Our packages ensure a personalized journey with private guides, enriching narratives, and seamless travel. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of ancient Egypt and let us take care of every detail, making your adventure both memorable and stress-free.

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Last Updated on June 24, 2024