King Tutankhamun Tomb

 

Introduction to the Tomb of King Tutankhamun

The Tomb of King Tutankhamun (KV62) is one of the most iconic archaeological discoveries of all time. Located in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, it was found almost entirely intact in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter, setting off a wave of fascination that still captivates the world today. The tomb belonged to the boy king Tutankhamun, who ruled Egypt during the 18th Dynasty. Though his reign was short, his burial site became legendary for its incredible wealth and the insight it offers into ancient Egyptian burial practices.

Despite being smaller and more modest than other royal tombs, the tomb’s preservation and the treasures it contained made it a milestone in Egyptology. Today, visitors can see the tomb and the remains of the young pharaoh in person. Check our day tours daily offers

Who Was King Tutankhamun

Tutankhamun became pharaoh around the age of nine and reigned for approximately ten years, from about 1332 to 1323 BCE. His reign came during a time of political and religious upheaval following the reign of Akhenaten, who had introduced monotheism to Egypt. Tutankhamun is believed to have restored traditional polytheistic worship and brought stability back to the kingdom.

He died unexpectedly at a young age, likely in his late teens. The cause of death is still debated, with theories ranging from illness to injury. Because of his sudden death, it is thought that his tomb was hastily prepared, explaining its smaller size and simpler layout compared to other royal burials.

Discovery of the Tomb

The tomb was discovered on November 4, 1922, after years of searching in the Valley of the Kings. Howard Carter and his team uncovered the entrance beneath the remains of ancient workers’ huts. What they found behind the sealed doorway stunned the world: thousands of artifacts, glittering gold, statues, chariots, weapons, and the famous golden funerary mask.

The discovery was exceptional not just because of the treasures, but because it was the first largely intact royal tomb ever found. Carter’s meticulous documentation and excavation set new standards in archaeology and brought global attention to ancient Egypt.

Architecture and Layout

The tomb is small for a pharaoh, possibly because of Tutankhamun’s sudden death. It consists of four main rooms:

• Antechamber: This was the main entry space, packed with furniture, chariots, and household items meant for use in the afterlife
• Annex: A small side room filled with jars, oils, and food offerings
• Burial Chamber: The heart of the tomb, containing the red quartzite sarcophagus and the nested coffins, including the famous solid gold inner coffin
• Treasury: A room filled with ritual objects, statues, and the magnificent canopic shrine that held his internal organs

The walls of the burial chamber are painted with scenes of the king’s journey to the afterlife, including depictions of Osiris, Anubis, and Hathor. The paintings are simple compared to those in larger tombs but carry deep symbolic meaning.

Treasure and the Golden Mask

The tomb contained over five thousand artifacts, many of which are now housed in the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. Among the most iconic items found:

• The golden funerary mask, one of the most recognized images from ancient Egypt
• A series of nested coffins, the innermost made of solid gold
• A canopic shrine with miniature gold coffins for his internal organs
• Thrones, ceremonial weapons, musical instruments, jewelry, and clothing

These treasures reveal the craftsmanship and religious beliefs of the New Kingdom, as well as the wealth and status enjoyed by royalty even in death.

Mummy of Tutankhamun

Tutankhamun’s mummy remains in his tomb, housed in a climate-controlled glass case. This is the only royal mummy still in its original tomb. The body was in poor condition due to damage caused during the original mummification process and further harm when Carter removed the body from the coffins.

Modern CT scans and DNA studies have shown that Tutankhamun suffered from several health issues, including a possible congenital bone disorder and malaria. These findings suggest that his early death may have been due to a combination of natural illness and injury. Check our travel packages offers!

Cultural Impact and the “Curse”

The discovery of the tomb sparked the idea of the “Curse of the Pharaohs,” popularized by the mysterious deaths of several people connected to the excavation. While historians and scientists dismiss the idea of a real curse, the myth added to the allure and mystery surrounding the tomb.

Tutankhamun’s fame reached global heights after touring exhibitions of his treasures in the 20th century introduced millions to ancient Egyptian art and history. Check our travel packages offers!

Visiting Information

• Location: Valley of the Kings, Luxor
• Opening Status: Open to visitors daily
• Tickets: Requires an additional ticket beyond the general Valley of the Kings entry
• Facilities: Nearby visitor center, rest areas, and gift shops
• Accessibility: Short walk from main entrance, small interior rooms with narrow access

Tips for Visitors

• Buy a separate ticket specifically for King Tutankhamun’s tomb
• Go early in the day to avoid long lines and intense midday heat
• No photography is allowed inside without special permits
• Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum to see the majority of his treasures
• Spend time examining the artwork inside the burial chamber despite its simplicity

Why Visit the Tomb of King Tutankhamun

Visiting the Tomb of Tutankhamun offers more than just a glimpse at gold and treasure. It connects you with one of the most dramatic chapters in archaeological history. Standing in the same space discovered by Howard Carter over a century ago is a rare opportunity to experience firsthand the awe and mystery that captivated the world.

Although smaller and less ornate than other royal tombs, its contents and historical importance make it one of the most famous tombs in existence. It is a powerful reminder that even a young, relatively minor pharaoh can achieve immortality through the stories left behind. Reserve now with Egypt trips package and check our travel packages, day tours and nile cruises special offers! Make your dream come true!