Valley of the Kings: Visit Egypt’s Hidden Gems

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most prominent ancient historical landmarks in Egypt. It is a narrow valley located on the west bank of the Nile River and attracts a large number of tourists, especially in winter, to explore its archaeological and historical sites. In this article, we will learn about the importance of the Valley of the Kings and its most famous royal tombs.

Valley of the Kings and its Archaeological Significance

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most important and famous archaeological areas in Luxor. It contains many treasures and well-known archaeological tombs of the pharaohs. It encompasses the area located on the west bank of Luxor, along with dozens of tombs built by the kings of Egypt in the heart of the valley. 

These tombs are renowned for their treasures and secrets, bearing witness to Egypt’s history, arts, and mysteries that still remain on the walls and surfaces. Among the most famous tombs in the Valley of the Kings are the tomb of King Tutankhamun, the tombs of the kings of the New Kingdom period, and numerous other tombs. 

The Valley of the Kings is a major attraction for tourists and visitors from all over the world. The valley was named so because many kings, their families, and their possessions were buried there, although it has been found that individuals not belonging to the royal family were also buried in the valley.

Why Did the Pharaohs Choose the Valley of the Kings as Their Royal Burial Ground?

According to historical accounts, the pharaohs chose the Valley of the Kings as their burial ground because it was a peaceful and restful place. It is said that Thutmose I, the first ruler of the New Kingdom, requested to be buried in the Valley of the Kings. 

Many other kings were buried there, eventually leading to the valley’s name. The pharaohs believed that they would begin their journey to the afterlife in the Valley of the Kings.

Famous Royal Tombs in the Valley of the Kings

There are many royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings, some of the most prominent being:

Tutankhamun’s tomb

The tomb of Tutankhamun is one of the most famous pharaonic tombs in the Valley of the Kings, containing more than five thousand artifacts. Among the most important of these artifacts is the golden mask, currently housed in the Egyptian Museum, and the chamber of King Tut, which impresses thousands of tourists from around the world due to its luxury and the presence of many hidden rooms, which attracts many visitors.

Tomb of King Seti I

Tomb of King Seti I

This is one of the largest tombs in the Valley of the Kings. King Seti I was the second king of the Ramesses II dynasty. His tomb is designated KV17 and is also known as Belzoni’s Tomb, named after its discoverer. 

This tomb is notable for its various archaeological texts and is richly decorated with distinctive and precise inscriptions. Among these texts are the Litany of Ra, the Book of the Divine Cow, the Story of the Destruction of Mankind, and astronomical scenes adorning the sky, mimicking the night sky.

Tomb of Seti II

Tomb of Seti II

This is one of the pharaonic tombs rich in Egyptian wonders. Its gate is decorated with naos and solar disks, and the walls contain writings, including many Greek texts.

Tomb of Ramesses I

Tomb of Ramesses I

Although the reign of Ramesses I was short, he had a well-prepared tomb, distinguished by its magnificent design in the entrance and rooms. Despite its modest size, the tomb is surprisingly impressive.

Tomb of Ramesses III

Tomb of Ramesses III

This tomb is characterized by its four corridors and many rooms. It also contains numerous pharaonic texts and decorations. Many tourists visit it to explore and take beautiful souvenir photos.

Tomb of Ramesses VI

Tomb of Ramesses VI

One of the most famous tombs in the Valley of the Kings, it was built during the reign of Ramesses V and expanded by King Ramesses VI, who used some pharaonic designs filled with texts, maps, and spells. Walking through this tomb is like traveling through time.

Tomb of Ramesses VII

Tomb of Ramesses VII

This is one of the most enchanting tombs in the Valley of the Kings, featuring many decorations and drawings. It also has a long corridor filled with decorations and funerary texts, and it contains a stone sarcophagus with many images of the gods.

Tomb of Merneptah

Tomb of Merneptah

This tomb is characterized as being long, containing many uniquely decorated rooms and gates, as well as long corridors.

Architecture of the Tombs in the Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings was built using stone, with these stones being cut in a precise geometric manner to fit together. It was built in the style of ancient Egyptian civilization. 

Limestone and granite were used in the construction to ensure precise treatment. The columns and walls were decorated with numerous designs and funerary texts, as well as inscriptions depicting gods and Egyptian religious beliefs, telling the story of eternal life and death.

How to Visit the Valley of the Kings from Cairo 

The Valley of the Kings can be visited from Cairo International Airport by taking a train, which takes approximately nine hours, or by bus, which takes approximately ten hours. It is also possible to travel by plane, which takes one hour.

Tourists visiting the Valley of the Kings should plan their trip well, ensure they have their important personal belongings such as their passport and phone, enjoy their time, and take unique souvenir photos in a wonderful tourist experience in the Valley of the Kings.

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most significant and famous ancient historical landmarks in Egypt, attracting visitors and tourists every year to witness the greatness of ancient Egyptian civilization.