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Valley of the Kings, Egypt

# Valley of the Kings

Introduction

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Egypt, located on the west bank of the Nile River opposite modern-day Luxor, Egypt. It was discovered by German archaeologist Ludwig Borchardt in 1902 and has since become a major tourist destination. The site covers over 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) along the valley and is home to approximately 60 tombs, many of which date back to the New Kingdom period.

The Valley of the Kings was once believed to be the final resting place of pharaohs from the Old Kingdom period but has been extensively excavated and studied by archaeologists over the years. Today, it remains a significant cultural and historical site, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Key Facts

  • Location: The Valley of the Kings is located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt.
  • Length: Over 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) along the valley.
  • Number of Tombs: Approximately 60 tombs, many dating back to the New Kingdom period.
  • Pharaohs Buried There: Many pharaohs from the Old Kingdom period were believed to have been buried here.
  • Excavation History: The site has undergone extensive excavation since its discovery in 1902.

Historical Context

The Valley of the Kings was first discovered by German archaeologist Ludwig Borchardt in 1898, but it wasn't until 1902 that he made a major breakthrough. Borchardt's work began to shed light on the burial practices and rituals of ancient Egyptian pharaohs.

Since then, numerous excavations have taken place at the site, with many significant discoveries being made. The Valley of the Kings has been a favorite among archaeologists due to its unique and well-preserved tombs, which provide valuable insights into the culture and traditions of ancient Egypt.

Significant Contributions

  • New Kingdom Tombs: Many of the tombs discovered in the Valley of the Kings date back to the New Kingdom period (16th-11th centuries BCE).
  • Pharaonic Burial Practices: The site has provided a unique glimpse into pharaohs' burial practices, including elaborate rituals and funerary objects.
  • Tombs as Caves: Many tombs were discovered in cave-like formations, which adds to their mystique and allure.

Notable Attr

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  • Generation time: 2024-11-01 20:05:53
  • Keywords: Valley of the Kings, Egypt, wiki, history, attractions, facts
  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/valley_of_the_kings_egypt