The Valley of the Kings: An Eternal Resting Place for Pharaohs

Located on the west bank of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings(Arabic: وادي الملوك Wādī al-Mulūk;), also known as the Valley of the Gates of the Kings (Arabic: وادي أبواب الملوك Wādī Abwāb al-Mulūk),is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world. Once serving as the final resting place for the powerful rulers of Ancient Egypt, this valley contains over 65 tombs, some grand and intricately decorated, while others are more modest pits. Visitors from around the world flock to this site to witness the grandeur and mystery of Egypt’s past.

Why the Valley of the Kings?

During the Old Kingdom, pharaohs were buried in massive pyramids, but these structures, visible from miles away, became easy targets for tomb robbers. To protect their treasures and remain undisturbed in the afterlife, pharaohs of the New Kingdom (1539 BC – 1075 BC) chose the hidden valley as their burial ground. The first known pharaoh to be buried here was Thutmose I, and the last was Ramesses XI. Despite their efforts, nearly all tombs were looted—except for one famous exception.

Visiting the Valley of the Kings: What to Expect

Today, 18 tombs are open to the public on a rotating basis to allow for restoration. The general entry ticket costs around 400 Egyptian Pounds and grants access to three tombs of your choice. Special tombs, such as that of Tutankhamun, require an additional fee (approximately 360 Egyptian Pounds).

Our visit included three fascinating tombs:

1. The Tomb of King Merenptah (KV8)

Merenptah, the 13th son of the legendary Ramses II, ascended to the throne only because all his elder brothers had passed away. His tomb stretches 160 meters into the hillside, leading visitors downward through a series of corridors adorned with intricate religious texts.

The original burial chamber housed four nested sarcophagi, emphasizing the importance of protection in the afterlife.

2. The Tomb of Ramesses IX (KV6)

Ramesses IX, an 8th pharaoh of the 20th Dynasty, rests in a tomb extending 105 meters. The entrance leads through a wide, descending ramp, gradually revealing elaborate carvings that depict his journey to the afterlife.

His burial chamber, though looted in antiquity, still offers glimpses into the grandeur of Egypt’s royal burials.

3. The Tomb of Ramesses III (KV11)

Ramesses III, one of Egypt’s last great warrior pharaohs, was buried in a stunningly decorated tomb stretching 188 meters. The burial chamber features the Book of Gates and the Book of the Earth, sacred texts guiding the pharaoh into the afterlife.

A grand red quartzite sarcophagus once occupied the chamber, adding to the tomb’s splendor.

The Discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb: The Greatest Archaeological Find

Despite centuries of looting, one tomb remained untouched: that of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. Discovered by British archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922, Tutankhamun’s tomb held 5,398 artifacts, including a solid gold coffin, an iconic golden face mask, and royal thrones. Today, many of these treasures are displayed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s golden age.

Beyond the Tombs: The Egyptian Tourist Experience

Like many Egyptian tourist sites, the exit from the Valley of the Kings leads through a shopping area, where local artisans sell souvenirs, from alabaster statues to papyrus paintings. While some may see this as a strategic sales tactic, it’s also an opportunity to take home a piece of Egypt’s heritage.

Tips for Visiting the Valley of the Kings

• Start Early: The heat can be intense by midday. Arrive early to explore comfortably.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Expect to walk long distances through uneven pathways.

• Carry Water: The desert heat can be exhausting, so hydration is key.

• Hire a Guide: A knowledgeable guide can enrich your experience with historical insights.

• Check Restoration Schedules: Some tombs close periodically for maintenance, so check availability before your visit.

Final Thoughts: A Journey Through Time

The Valley of the Kings is more than just a burial site—it’s a portal to an ancient civilization that continues to captivate the world. From the grandeur of its tombs to the legendary discovery of Tutankhamun, this valley tells a story of power, faith, and the quest for immortality.

If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, make sure to include this breathtaking site in your itinerary. The tombs may be silent, but their walls still whisper the stories of Egypt’s most powerful rulers.