Tutankhamun's Tomb

Definition

Tutankhamun's Tomb, discovered in 1922, is the burial site of the young Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, who ruled during the 18th Dynasty. The tomb is famous for its remarkable artifacts and well-preserved condition, providing invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices, art, and culture. The discovery of the tomb marked a significant moment in archaeology, showcasing the wealth and complexity of ancient Egyptian civilization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) was discovered in the Valley of the Kings by Howard Carter and his team after years of searching for lost royal tombs.
2. Inside the tomb, over 5,000 artifacts were found, including a solid gold mask, furniture, jewelry, and chariots, all showcasing the wealth and artistry of ancient Egypt.
3. The tomb's burial chamber contained a sarcophagus made of quartzite, which housed the mummified remains of Tutankhamun wrapped in layers of linen.
4. One of the significant aspects of the tomb's discovery was its relatively intact condition compared to other tombs that had been looted or damaged over time.
5. The discovery sparked worldwide interest in ancient Egypt and significantly advanced the field of archaeology, leading to more excavations and research on Egyptian history.

Review Questions

• How did the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb contribute to our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture and burial practices?
  • The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb provided an unprecedented glimpse into ancient Egyptian culture, particularly their burial practices. The artifacts found within the tomb revealed details about their beliefs regarding the afterlife, such as the importance of funerary items to ensure a successful journey into the next world. Additionally, the well-preserved state of the tomb offered insights into royal life during the 18th Dynasty, highlighting the opulence and significance of pharaonic rule.
• Evaluate Howard Carter's role in the excavation of Tutankhamun's tomb and its impact on archaeological methods at that time.
  • Howard Carter played a crucial role in the excavation of Tutankhamun's tomb, employing meticulous techniques that set a new standard for archaeological practices. His careful documentation and preservation efforts during the excavation process emphasized the importance of scientific methods in archaeology. This approach not only led to the successful recovery of thousands of artifacts but also established a model for future excavations in other historical sites around the world.
• Analyze how Tutankhamun's tomb influenced public interest in archaeology and ancient Egypt in the 20th century.
  • Tutankhamun's tomb significantly influenced public interest in archaeology and ancient Egypt during the 20th century by capturing global attention through media coverage and exhibitions. The sheer wealth of artifacts showcased in traveling exhibits stirred fascination with ancient cultures and inspired a wave of Egyptomania. This newfound interest led to increased funding for archaeological research, more expeditions to uncover historical sites, and a broader appreciation for preserving cultural heritage worldwide.

Related terms

Ancient Egypt: An ancient civilization that flourished along the Nile River, known for its impressive monuments, hieroglyphic writing system, and complex religious beliefs.

Howard Carter: The British archaeologist who led the excavation of Tutankhamun's tomb and is credited with its discovery in 1922.

Valley of the Kings: A burial site in Egypt where many pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried, including Tutankhamun, known for its elaborate tombs and royal significance.