Mysteries of World Culture

Author: Shi Xuanyuan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-01-21
Features: On the west bank of the Nile River, about 700 kilometers south of Cairo, Egypt, was the site of the ancient Egyptian capital of Thebes. During the Eighteenth Dynasty (approximately 1570-1090 BC), after Pharaoh Thutmose I built a completely concealed underground tomb here, the remaining 30 or more pharaohs followed suit, burying themselves in this place. Thus, the area was famously known as the "Valley of the Kings." For thousands of years, the royal tombs in the "Valley of the Kings" have been a target for tomb raiders, travelers, and archaeologists. By the early 20th century, almost every corner had been disturbed and looted. However, within the "Valley of the Kings," there was one tomb that had almost been forgotten—the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun of the Eighteenth Dynasty, who ruled over 3,000 years ago. Tutankhamun was the of Queen Nefertiti, the wife of the famous Pharaoh Akhenaten (also known as Amenhotep IV). He was a ruler with little notable achievements. It is estimated that he ascended the throne in 1361 BC at the age of 10 and married a 12-year-old girl. He died at the age of 19 (some believe he was 18). His life story is limited to what is recorded in historical records and legends. However, because Tutankhamun's tomb was discovered almost intact, it remains one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries in the world. It is the most complete and valuable ancient Egyptian pharaoh's tomb ever found.