Discovery and Excavation
Initial Discovery
The tomb of King Tut, also known as Tutankhamun, was discovered by British archaeologist Howard Carter on November 4th, 1922.
This incredible find took place in the Valley of the Kings, a burial site near Thebes (modern Luxor) in Egypt, where New Kingdom rulers were entombed.
The tomb, designated as KV62, was unusually small compared to those of other pharaohs, suggesting it may have been constructed hastily due to Tutankhamun’s unexpected early death around 1323 BC.
Cataloging Treasures
The archaeological team, funded by Lord Carnarvon, worked meticulously to catalog the treasures packed into Tut’s tomb.
They found over 5,000 artifacts, including the iconic solid-gold death mask and intricately adorned furnishings.
These antique items were later shipped to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, with many being moved to the Grand Egyptian Museum more recently.
- Solid-gold death mask: Perhaps the most famous treasure, this mask adorned Tutankhamun’s mummy and represents an idealized image of the king.
- Throne: A gilded wooden throne featuring images of Tutankhamun and his queen, Ankhesenamun.
- Chariots: Several elaborately decorated chariots were found in the tomb, some still in working condition.
- Jewelry: Numerous pieces of ornate jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, rings, and amulets, were discovered among the funerary objects.
Unveiling the Mummy
On October 28, 1925, almost three years after the initial discovery, Howard Carter and his team finally unveiled the mummy of Tutankhamun.
Inside the tomb, a series of shrines and coffins nested one within another, protecting the king’s body.
Remarkably, King Tut’s mummy is the only royal mummy to have been found entirely undisturbed.
This discovery and excavation brought to light a wealth of information about ancient Egyptian burial practices, art, and culture.
The story of King Tut’s tomb continues to captivate people around the world, revealing the wonders of a past civilization that still echoes today.
Life and Death of Tutankhamun
Tutankhamun’s Reign
Tutankhamun, also known as King Tut, was a pharaoh of ancient Egypt who ruled during the 18th Dynasty of the New Kingdom, from 1332 to 1323 BC.
He was only eight or nine years old when he ascended to the throne and was guided by powerful advisers.
His reign was notable for reversing the religious reforms of his predecessor, Akhenaten, who had promoted the worship of the Aten over the traditional Egyptian pantheon.
Tutankhamun restored the traditional religion and reestablished the worship of the god Amun and other deities.
His reign was crucial in returning Egypt to its artistic and monumental tradition.
Mysterious Demise
The circumstances of King Tut’s death have long been a subject of debate among historians.
The cause of his death remains uncertain, as there are several theories, from illness to accidents.
For instance, DNA testing of his mummy found evidence of malaria and a broken leg, which could suggest either an infection or a fatal accident.
Other researchers propose that genetic diseases and bone conditions may have been contributing factors.
Funerary Practices
When Tutankhamun’s mummy was discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, it was the only royal mummy to have been found undisturbed.
His burial chamber, located in the Valley of the Kings, contained numerous artifacts, including a golden mask, shrines, and furniture.
The mummification process involved the removal of internal organs, the use of natron to dry the body, and wrapping it in linen bandages.
The body was then placed in a series of nested coffins before being sealed in the sarcophagus.
In addition to his mummy, his tomb contained various burial goods that would accompany him into the afterlife, such as walking sticks, canes, and even two mummified fetuses, believed to be his daughters.
As per ancient Egyptian beliefs, these items would help the deceased in their journey to the afterlife.
Despite his brief reign and the circumstances of his death, Tutankhamun’s discovery remains one of the most significant archaeological findings in ancient Egyptian history.
His tomb provides a unique insight into the life and funerary customs of the era, revealing information that has expanded our understanding of this fascinating civilization.