Valley of the Kings : The Eternal Resting Place of Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs

Valley of the Kings Overview

1. Location and Historical Background

The Valley of the Kings is located about 5 kilometers west of the ancient Egyptian capital, Thebes (modern Luxor). It is on the west side of the Nile River, and was known as the "Land of the West" because the ancient Egyptians associated the west with death. They believed the setting sun signified the end of life, and so they placed the tombs of their kings there. The Valley of the Kings became the burial point for Pharaohs from the 18th Dynasty (around 1550–1295 BC) to the 20th Dynasty (around 1186–1069 BC). This era was one of Egypt's most prosperous times.

2. Structure of the Valley of the Kings

The Valley is divided into two main parts: the East Valley (where the tombs of the 18th and 19th Dynasties are located) and the West Valley (where the tombs of the 20th Dynasty are set up ). The tombs are carved into limestone cliffs and connected by passageways. Inside these tombs, there are detailed wall paintings that describe the trip  to the afterlife and the connections with the gods. The tombs also contain the pharaoh's body, crowns, funeral goods, and treasures.

3. Famous Tombs

Many famous pharaohs from the 18th to 20th Dynasties were buried in the Valley of the Kings. Some of the crucial 

sepultures include

 

3-1. Tombs from the 18th Dynasty

The 18th Dynasty is one of the most significant in the Valley of the Kings:

• Thutmose I: The first king of the 18th Dynasty, his tomb is small but important as one of the earliest examples of pharaohs preparing for their afterlife.
• Thutmose II: His tomb has some damaged murals but is still an important site.
• Hatshepsut: She was not buried in the Valley but in a nearby temple at Deir el- Bahari. Her mortuary tabernacle is close to the Valley.
• Thutmose III: Known as one of Egypt's Most notable pharaohs, his tomb is simple but significant.
• Amenhotep II: His tomb features impressive artwork, especially the wall paintings.
• Amenhotep III: His tomb is one of the important discoveries in the Valley.

3-2. Tombs from the 19th Dynasty

The 19th Dynasty rulers played a significant role in Egypt’s history:

• Ramses I: The founder of the 19th Dynasty, his tomb is simple but important.
• Seti I: His tomb is one of the most beautiful and detailed in the Valley.
• Ramses II: Known as Ramses the Great, his tomb is extensive and sophisticated , symbolizing his power.
• Ramses III: He is the last great military pharaoh, and his tomb reflects Egypt’s cultural richness at the time.

3-3. Tombs from the 20th Dynasty

The 20th Dynasty was the last to build tombs in the Valley:

• Seti II: His tomb is relatively simple.
• Ramses X: His tomb is smaller, but it was found in the Valley.
• Ramses XI: The last pharaoh of the 20th Dynasty, his tomb is damaged and shows signs of the kingdom’s decline.

4. Tomb Robbery and Preservation

Many tombs in the Valley were robbed over the centuries, and treasures were stolen. However, some tombs, like Tutankhamun’s tomb, were set up in fairly good condition. At the moment, the Valley of the king is a World-renowned Heritage Location and is regularly maintained by archaeologists.

5. Cultural Significance

The Valley of the Kings is crucial for understanding ancient Egyptian religion, politics, art, and architecture. The tombs and their artwork reveal beliefs about the afterlife and the pharaohs' journey to the next world. The Valley remains a crucial point for studying ancient Egyptian culture and offers a rich experience for tourists.

6. Conclusion

The Valley of the Kings holds the tombs of many important pharaohs, and it was a sacred place where kings prepared for their trip to the afterlife. Despite the looting of many tombs, it still showcases Egypt’s religious beliefs, culture, and artistic achievements.