Tomb of Tutankhamun
kv62
The discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb KV62 in 1922 is one of the most remarkable archaeological finds in history. Hidden in the sands of Egypt’s Valley of the Kings for over 3,000 years, this tomb not only preserved the legacy of a young pharaoh but also provided invaluable insight into the art, culture, and spirituality of Ancient Egypt.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Tutankhamen-tomb-1024x683.jpg)
A Brief Reign
Tutankhamun became pharaoh when he was just a boy, around nine or ten, during the 18th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt. He ruled for nine years (1332–1323 BCE) when Egypt was struggling to recover from the troubles caused by his predecessor, Akhenaten.
Akhenaten changed Egyptian culture by promoting the worship of Aten, the sun disk, and moving away from the traditional gods. When Tutankhamun took the throne, he and his advisors worked to bring back the old ways. They restored the worship of the traditional gods, repaired temples, and moved the capital back to Thebes.
Although Tutankhamun tried to stabilize the kingdom, his reign was short and didn’t have notable military or political successes. He died at around 19 years old, possibly from illness, injury, or genetic issues. His tomb, however, became famous and helped make him one of the most well-known rulers in history.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-west-wall-of-the-burial-chamber-portraying-twelve-baboons-from-the-Amduat-1024x586.jpg)
The Location: KV62
The tomb is in the Valley of the Kings, near Luxor (ancient Thebes). This area was used for burials of Egypt’s elite during the New Kingdom (1550–1070 BCE). Unlike the large pyramids from the Old Kingdom, the tombs in the Valley were hidden in the rocky hills to prevent looting.
Tutankhamun’s tomb was particularly well hidden because debris covered its entrance from later buildings. This kept it safe from the looting that happened to most royal tombs in the valley.
British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered the tomb on November 4, 1922, with funding from Lord Carnarvon. The first excavation revealed an intact seal, showing that the tomb had mostly remained untouched since ancient times. The discovery of over 5,000 artifacts generated worldwide headlines and renewed interest in Ancient Egypt.
Luxor Tours & Activities
Looking to save some costs on your travel? Why not join a shared group tour to explore Luxor, Egypt? Here are some activities you might be interested in:
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/KV62-1024x698.jpg)
The Layout and Design
Tutankhamun’s tomb, KV62, is simpler than the grand tombs of other New Kingdom pharaohs. His sudden passing may have left little time to design a more elaborate burial site, according to experts.
The tomb has a series of small chambers and corridors, all beautifully decorated and filled with treasures for a pharaoh. The tomb is different from other royal tombs because it was made for someone who was not a king before the young king used it.
Although it doesn’t have the large, complex design of other royal tombs, it is very well-preserved. This is mostly because it was hidden under rubble from later tombs, which helped protect it from robbers for many years.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Tomb-of-Tutankhamun.jpg)
Tutankhamun’s tomb KV62 is divided into four main areas:
The Antechamber
The antechamber is the first room you see when you enter the tomb. It has a messy mix of items, likely put together quickly during the burial. The space is filled with furniture, chariots, and statues, showing the wealth of the period. Even though it looks disorganized, the antechamber displays the amazing skills of ancient Egyptian artisans.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Tomb-of-Tutankhamun--1024x768.jpg)
by EA SK
The Burial Chamber
The burial chamber is the most important part of the tomb. In this chamber, Tutankhamun’s sarcophagus and nested coffins were found. The walls are decorated with vivid paintings that illustrate the king’s journey to the afterlife. The golden shrines and amulets within the burial chamber reflect the Egyptians’ deep beliefs in immortality and the divine nature of the pharaoh.
The Treasury
To the east of the burial chamber is the treasury, a smaller room filled with ceremonial objects, including the iconic Canopic Shrine that housed Tutankhamun’s internal organs. This room also contained statues of gods and protective spirits, which reinforced the tomb’s spiritual significance.
The Annex
The annex is the most disorganized area within the tomb, filled with everyday items like food, wine, and clothing. These provisions were meant to sustain the young pharaoh in the afterlife, reflecting the Egyptian belief in a vibrant, eternal existence after death.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-east-wall-of-the-burial-chamber-showing-court-officials-dragging-Tutankhamuns-mummy-to-his-tomb-1024x566.jpg)
Depictions of Divine Beings
One of the most captivating aspects of Tutankhamun’s tomb is the wealth of religious art and symbolism, particularly the depictions of divine beings. These figures guide and protect the young pharaoh on his journey to the afterlife.
Osiris, the God of the Afterlife
The burial chamber features scenes of Tutankhamun with Osiris, the god of the afterlife, resurrection, and fertility. In these depictions, the pharaoh is shown making offerings and receiving blessings, symbolizing his eternal union with the divine.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Theban-Necropolis-Valley-of-the-Kings-Tomb-of-Tutankhamun-XVIII-Dyn-Burial-Chamber-Hathor-Anubis-Welcome-the-King-into-the-Netherworld.jpg)
Anubis, the Protector of the Dead
Statues of Anubis, the jackal-headed god associated with mummification, were discovered guarding the treasury. Anubis’s presence highlights the significance of preservation and protection in the burial process, ensuring the pharaoh’s body and soul are preserved for the afterlife.
Hathor, the Goddess of Joy and Motherhood
Hathor is portrayed as a nurturing figure who guides Tutankhamun on his spiritual journey. Her maternal role emphasizes the Egyptians’ belief in a compassionate and welcoming afterlife for the righteous.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Theban-Necropolis-Valley-of-the-Kings-Tomb-of-Tutankhamun-XVIII-Dyn-Burial-Chamber-Ay-performing-‘Opening-of-the-Mouth-on-Tutankhamun-as-Osiris-1024x768.jpg)
by EA SK
Isis and Nephthys, Sisters of Osiris
Isis and Nephthys appear in various forms throughout the tomb, often depicted with outstretched wings as protectors of the deceased. Their roles as mourners and guardians emphasize their significance in the resurrection mythology central to Egyptian religion.
The Solar Deities: Ra and Aten
Ra, the sun god, and Aten, the sun disk, play a significant role in the tomb’s artwork. These solar deities represent renewal and the eternal cycle of life and death, reflecting the pharaoh’s transition to divine status.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/KV62-Tutankhamen-Tomb-.jpg)
The Legacy of Tutankhamun’s Tomb
The tomb of Tutankhamun fascinates both scholars and the public. It is not just about its treasures; it also shows us Ancient Egypt’s religious beliefs, art, and daily life. The discovery of the tomb sparked renewed interest in Egyptology and symbolizes our lasting curiosity about the past.
![[KV62] Tutankhamen Tomb](https://exploreluxor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/KV62-Tutankhamen-Tomb.jpg)
Tutankhamun, once not well-known, is now one of the most famous figures in history. His legacy shows how archaeology connects us with the lives and beliefs of people who lived thousands of years ago.
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