Valley of the Kings

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is a historical wonder located off the beaten path in Egypt's western desert, and it continues to beguile both travelers and archaeologists. Located close to Luxor in the ancient east, the Valley of the Kings served as the burial ground of the New Kingdom pharaohs. Touring the Valley of the Kings is a Luxor day tour on most travelers' itineraries and is considered one of the primary Luxor attractions, giving travelers an in-depth understanding of Egypt's complex history. If you love history and exploration, this is one of those things to do in Luxor that you must visit.

History of the Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings was the main burial site for the pharaohs (and other Egyptian royalty) from the 16th century to the 11th century BCE. The tombs were built deep into limestone rock to keep the pharaohs, as well as their mummies and artefacts, safe from robbers, for example, people like Ramses II and Tutankhamun. You can see the tombs on any day trip to Luxor you take, and it provides the best insight into the actual burial practices of Ancient Egypt that you will ever see - the ancient tombs and pharaohs are just a couple of the main reasons to visit

Historians suspect the valley's remoteness convinced tomb robbers that they should look elsewhere for valuables, but they were not always successful in stopping tomb robbers! Despite hundreds of years of plundering (and robbing), the tombs maintain their artistry and religious significance. In the context of being on the rest of a Luxor West Bank tour, on a visit to the valley of the kings, the spiritual aspect you experience by being in the same place is almost undeniable. The mummy chambers, with their grisly history - ancient burial chambers and the royal necropolis today are still investigated and studied by the archaeological community.

Visiting the Tombs in the Valley of the Kings

Strolling through the Valley of the Kings is a magical experience. More than 60 tombs are said to have been discovered, each tomb's walls contain colorfully painted scenes of the pharaoh's voyage through the afterlife. If you book a Luxor sightseeing tour that includes the valley, you’ll have the benefit of an expert guide’s knowledge to help decipher the ancient messages contained within the walls. The hieroglyphic artworks and funerary patterns are incredibly absorbing subject matter.

Out of the tombs, King Tutankhamun's tomb is the most notable because of the beautiful treasure that was found within it. It is smaller than the other tombs, but remains a must-see on any Luxor day tour, because it introduces you to the archaeological importance of the time and ancient Egyptian modes of thinking concerning death and divinity, and how they were exhibited in the tomb's decor.

The Valley of the Kings Today

The Valley of the Kings is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and quite possibly the biggest Luxor attraction for worldwide visitors. Modern-day preservation has allowed important historical features to remain, so visitors on a day trip to Luxor can appreciate the incredible artwork and craftsmanship that has endured for thousands of years. This is particularly significant when on a Luxor Day Tour in the West Bank. Not surprisingly, the continued cultural significance and visitor attraction value make the Valley of the Kings a must for any Egypt itinerary.

With conservation and tourism adding more tombs to the public domain, there are even some lesser-known tombs available for quiet exploration in the Valley of the Kings. Because the valley is often included in most Luxor West Bank tours, it will most likely be included in the best things to do in Luxor. With historical awareness and exploration, it could remain a relevant and interesting destination for every generation.

A trip to the Valley of the Kings is not just a visit but an expedition into the heart of ancient Egypt. Whether as part of a Luxor sightseeing tour or as a singular day trip to Luxor, there is something about this sacred valley that entices with its mystery, its beauty, and its sheer magnitude of history. From the majesty of the tombs to the subtle buzz of history in the atmosphere, it is one of the most memorable Luxor attractions for those looking for the essence of Egypt.