Valley of the Kings

Definition

The Valley of the Kings is a burial ground located on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, Egypt, where many pharaohs of the New Kingdom were interred. It served as a royal cemetery from approximately 1539 to 1075 BCE and is famous for its richly decorated tombs that reflect the beliefs and practices surrounding death and the afterlife in ancient Egypt.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Valley of the Kings contains over 60 tombs, including that of Tutankhamun, which was discovered nearly intact in 1922.
2. The tombs were designed to protect the bodies and burial goods from grave robbers, featuring elaborate traps and hidden entrances.
3. The artwork inside the tombs often includes spells and scenes meant to guide the deceased in their journey through the afterlife.
4. The Valley was chosen for its remote location, allowing for greater secrecy compared to earlier burial sites like the pyramids.
5. Archaeological studies continue to uncover new findings in the Valley of the Kings, enhancing our understanding of ancient Egyptian funerary practices.

Review Questions

• How did the design and decoration of tombs in the Valley of the Kings reflect ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife?
  • Tombs in the Valley of the Kings were intricately designed to reflect ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife. They featured elaborate decorations and inscriptions that included spells from the Book of the Dead, intended to assist the deceased in navigating through the afterlife. The artwork often depicted scenes of daily life, religious rituals, and offerings meant to provide comfort and sustenance in the next world, demonstrating how important these beliefs were to Egyptian culture.
• Discuss the significance of the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in relation to our understanding of burial practices in ancient Egypt.
  • The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 was monumental because it provided a wealth of artifacts that showcased royal burial practices during the New Kingdom. Unlike many other tombs that had been looted over time, this tomb was found largely intact, allowing archaeologists to study items such as jewelry, furniture, and even a chariot. This finding illustrated not only the wealth and power associated with pharaohs but also offered insights into their beliefs about death and what was necessary for a successful journey into the afterlife.
• Evaluate how political changes during the New Kingdom influenced burial practices within the Valley of the Kings.
  • Political changes during the New Kingdom significantly influenced burial practices within the Valley of the Kings. As pharaohs sought to assert their divine authority and ensure their legacy, they moved from traditional pyramid burials to hidden rock-cut tombs in this valley for greater protection against theft. This shift also reflected an evolution in religious beliefs; as Osiris became more central in funerary practices, tomb designs incorporated elaborate rituals and artworks depicting resurrection themes. The choice of location symbolized both security and a commitment to uphold traditions while adapting to changing political landscapes.

Related terms

Mummification: The ancient Egyptian practice of preserving the body after death, which involved removing internal organs and wrapping the body in linen, aimed at ensuring a safe journey to the afterlife.

Osiris: The ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife, resurrection, and regeneration, often depicted as a mummified king, symbolizing death and rebirth.

New Kingdom: A period in ancient Egyptian history (c. 1550-1070 BCE) characterized by territorial expansion, immense wealth, and significant achievements in art, architecture, and culture, during which the Valley of the Kings was primarily used for royal burials.