For over 500 years, the Valley of the Kings in Egypt kept hidden tombs of pharaohs and kings from the time of the New Kingdom. It’s in the dry hills of Luxor and has over 60 fancy rock-cut tombs, including Tutankhamun’s famous one. Each tomb, made between the 16th and 11th centuries BCE, is like a treasure chest full of stories, incredible building skills, and careful plans for the afterlife. The Valley is still popular for archaeologists who want to learn about a civilization that believed in living forever and being close to the gods, as seen in their ancient art.
About Valley Of The Kings
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It is a famous historical place in Egypt where pharaohs and kings were buried during the New Kingdom from the Eighteenth to the Twentieth Dynasties. It’s on the west side of the Nile, opposite Luxor, which used to be Thebes. The valley is divided into two areas: the East Valley, where you’ll find most of the tombs, and the West Valley, famously known as the Valley of the Monkeys. Within this area lie 63 tombs and chambers, one belonging to Tutankhamun. Scholars have been exploring the mysteries of this place since the century seeking to uncover information about its inhabitants and unraveling the secrets behind its intricate tomb constructions. Several restoration projects are going on, and a new center for tourists has been made to improve tourist visits.
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History Of Valley Of The Kings
Image Credit: Carole Raddato for Wikimedia Commons
The Valley of the Kings, found in the Theban Hills on the Nile’s west side near Luxor, was a big deal for burying royals from 1539 BC to 1075 BC. It’s marked by the peak of al-Qurn, called “The Peak,” its pyramid-like shape probably copied older pyramids from a thousand years before royal burials started. The first royal tombs in this place are attributed to Amenhotep I (though disputed) and Thutmose I, whose advisor Ineni recorded his role in placing the king’s tomb in the desolate Valley. The Valley was the primary burial site for royalty and select nobles from Thutmose I to Ramesses X or XI. Initially, only kings were buried in large tombs within the Valley. Amenhotep III’s tomb was in the Western Valley, and his son Akhenaten’s tomb was initially planned for Amarna but possibly began in the Western Valley as WV25. However, not all kings, like Thutmose II and Ramesses VIII, were buried there or had their tombs found.
Best Tombs To Visit
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The Valley of the Kings in Luxor is a famous archaeological site known for its fancy tombs of pharaohs and important people from the time of the New Kingdom. Below are some of the most impressive and noteworthy tombs to visit:
- KV 17- Tomb of Seti I
- KV62 – Tutankhamun
- KV1 – Ramesses VII
- KV2 – Ramesses IV
- KV6 – Ramesses IX
These are some of the recommended tombs that you can visit. However, if you have the time, cover as many tombs as possible. It will take most of your time, but it is all worth it.
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Opening Hours & Best Time To Visit
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The Valley of the Kings is open year-round with winter hours (October to April) from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM and summer hours (May to September) from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The nicest time to go is between November and February because it’s not too hot. It costs 600 EGP to get in. It’s better to go early to miss the crowds, drink lots of water, wear comfy clothes and sunscreen, and consider hiring someone to show you around for a better visit.
Price Of Valley Of The Kings
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The Entrance ticket to the Valley of the Kings is 600 EGP, which grants access to 3 significant Tombs. In addition to the entrance ticket, a tram ticket is required to facilitate the journey from the ticket office to the tombs. It cost 20 EGP. Also, tickets are available for Specific Tomb that are:
1. KV9 – Ramesses V & VI: 180 EGP per person
2. KV17 – Seti I 1 : 800 EGP per person
3. KV62 : Tutankhamun 500 EGP per person
4. Tomb of Ay: 150 EGP per person
Further Read: Egypt Travel Guide
The Place is a remarkable example of ancient Egyptian civilization. This place teaches us about how pharaohs lived and were buried. You can see Tutankhamun’s impressive tomb and the beautifully decorated burial rooms of Ramesses III and Seti I, which show how smart and artistic the ancient Egyptians were. If you’re interested in this amazing place, now is the time to plan your trip to Egypt. Experience the rich history and culture, see the grandeur of the Valley of the Kings up close, and discover the secrets of the pharaohs. Don’t miss this chance.
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Cover Image credit: By cattan2011 for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Valley Of The Kings
What is the Valley of the Kings famous for?
The Valley of the Kings, also known as Wādī el-Mulūk, is famous for its rock-cut tombs, constructed for pharaohs and powerful nobles of ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom period (approximately 1550-1070 BCE).
Where is the Valley of the Kings located today?
The Valley of the Kings is situated on the west bank of the Nile River, directly opposite the city of Luxor, which was known as Thebes in ancient times. This area is part of the larger Theban Necropolis, which includes several other significant archaeological sites.
Who is buried in the Valley of the Kings?
The Valley of the Kings is the burial site for almost all the pharaohs from ancient Egypt's Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth Dynasties. Notable individuals buried there include Tutankhamun, whose tomb (KV62), Seti I, and Ramses II are some of the most influential and celebrated pharaohs.
How many bodies were found in the Valley of the Kings?
The Valley of the Kings contains 63 tombs. Several kings and people from the royal family were buried hence the name.
Was the Valley of Kings secret?
While the Valley of the Kings was not entirely secret, its location in a remote and rocky desert area provided some natural protection against tomb robbers. The tombs were often hidden and built into the cliffs to conceal their entrances. Despite these precautions, many tombs were looted over the centuries.
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