Tutankhamun's Tomb

Definition

Tutankhamun's Tomb is the burial site of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, located in the Valley of the Kings. Discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter, this tomb is renowned for its wealth of artifacts and elaborate decorations, showcasing the architectural sophistication and ritual significance of royal burial practices in ancient Egypt.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) is one of the most well-preserved and richly decorated royal tombs ever discovered, featuring intricate wall paintings and a vast array of artifacts.
2. Upon its discovery, the tomb contained over 5,000 items, including gold jewelry, a solid gold funerary mask, chariots, and furniture, providing invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian culture and burial customs.
3. The tomb's layout includes an antechamber, burial chamber, and treasury room, with each space containing significant religious symbols that reflect beliefs about the afterlife.
4. Tutankhamun's reign was relatively short-lived; he ascended to the throne at around 9 years old and died at approximately 18 or 19, which adds to the fascination surrounding his tomb.
5. The discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb sparked a global interest in Egyptology and led to numerous exhibitions showcasing its treasures, influencing perceptions of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Review Questions

• What architectural features of Tutankhamun's Tomb reflect ancient Egyptian burial customs?
  • Tutankhamun's Tomb showcases several architectural features that highlight ancient Egyptian burial customs. The layout includes multiple chambers such as an antechamber and a burial chamber, which are designed to house funerary goods and provide a sacred space for rituals. The walls are adorned with intricate paintings that depict scenes from mythology and the afterlife, emphasizing the belief in immortality and the importance of honoring the deceased. These features collectively illustrate how architecture was used to facilitate spiritual journeys in ancient Egyptian culture.
• Discuss the significance of funerary goods found in Tutankhamun's Tomb and their role in ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.
  • The funerary goods found in Tutankhamun's Tomb hold immense significance as they reflect ancient Egyptian beliefs regarding the afterlife. Items such as jewelry, weapons, food offerings, and everyday objects were included to ensure comfort and sustenance for the pharaoh in his journey beyond death. These goods illustrate the belief that life continued after death and that the deceased would need material possessions similar to those they had on earth. The abundance and variety of these items emphasize Tutankhamun's status and the Egyptians' deep-seated reverence for their rulers even after death.
• Evaluate how the discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb changed public perception of ancient Egyptian civilization and influenced modern archaeology.
  • The discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb dramatically changed public perception of ancient Egyptian civilization by revealing its incredible wealth, artistry, and cultural complexity. The lavish artifacts unearthed captivated global audiences and fueled a renewed interest in Egyptology. This find not only highlighted the significance of royal burials but also showcased advanced techniques in art and craftsmanship during Tutankhamun's reign. Furthermore, it set a new standard for archaeological methods, emphasizing meticulous excavation practices and careful preservation of historical sites that continue to influence modern archaeology today.

Related terms

Valley of the Kings: A necropolis in Egypt that served as the burial site for many pharaohs and nobles of the New Kingdom, characterized by its hidden tombs designed to protect royal burials from tomb robbers.

Mummification: The ancient Egyptian process of preserving a body after death, which involved removing internal organs, drying the body with natron, and wrapping it in linen, a practice closely linked to beliefs about the afterlife.

Funerary Goods: Items placed in tombs to accompany the deceased into the afterlife, including jewelry, tools, and other possessions believed to be needed for a comfortable existence beyond death.