Valley of the Kings

ancient Egypt · pharaohs · tombs · archaeology

Royal burial ground. The Valley of the Kings was where Egyptian pharaohs and important nobles were buried in tombs carved deep into rock cliffs. This sacred place was used from around 1500 to 1000 BCE, spanning about 500 years.

Hidden in the desert. The valley is located in Egypt near the Nile River, in a remote desert area. The pharaohs chose this isolated spot to protect their tombs from grave robbers and to keep their burial places secret.

Carved from stone. Instead of building massive pyramids above ground, workers chiseled elaborate tombs directly into the rocky cliffs and mountainsides. These underground chambers were filled with treasures, artwork, and everything the pharaohs would need in the afterlife.

Treasure trove of history. Archaeologists have discovered dozens of tombs in the valley, including the famous tomb of King Tutankhamun, which contained incredible golden artifacts. These tombs reveal amazing details about how ancient Egyptians lived, what they believed, and how they honored their rulers.

Dynasties in stone. The valley was used during Egypt's New Kingdom period, spanning the Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth Dynasties. This was one of the most powerful and wealthy times in ancient Egyptian history.