Tutankhamun's Tomb

Definition

Tutankhamun's Tomb, discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter, is the burial site of the young Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, who ruled during the New Kingdom period. The tomb is significant for its wealth of artifacts and its relatively intact state, providing invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian culture, funerary practices, and royal life during a time marked by political and religious transformation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tutankhamun's Tomb was discovered almost completely intact, with more than 5,000 artifacts found inside, including gold masks, furniture, and chariots.
2. The tomb's full name is KV62, indicating it is the 62nd tomb cataloged in the Valley of the Kings.
3. Tutankhamun ascended to the throne at a young age, around 8 or 9 years old, and ruled for approximately 10 years before his untimely death at around 18 or 19.
4. The treasures found in the tomb have provided historians with vital information about daily life, religious beliefs, and burial practices during ancient Egypt.
5. The discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb sparked a worldwide interest in ancient Egypt and led to significant advancements in archaeology and Egyptology.

Review Questions

• How did the discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb contribute to our understanding of New Kingdom Egypt?
  • The discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb provided an extraordinary glimpse into New Kingdom Egypt due to its wealth of artifacts that were preserved in their original context. This find revealed important details about royal life, daily activities, religious practices, and funerary customs of the time. The nearly untouched nature of the tomb allowed archaeologists to study items that had been used by a pharaoh and gain insights into the values and beliefs of ancient Egyptian society.
• Discuss the significance of Howard Carter's excavation methods in relation to the discovery of Tutankhamun's Tomb.
  • Howard Carter's excavation methods were groundbreaking for their time, emphasizing careful documentation and preservation techniques. His meticulous approach ensured that even fragile artifacts were handled properly, leading to better conservation and analysis. This set a new standard in archaeology, highlighting the importance of thorough record-keeping and respectful treatment of cultural heritage sites.
• Evaluate the broader impact that Tutankhamun's Tomb has had on modern perceptions of ancient Egypt and its cultural heritage.
  • Tutankhamun's Tomb has significantly influenced modern perceptions of ancient Egypt by captivating public imagination and sparking widespread interest in its history. The opulence of the tomb's artifacts showcased the sophistication and artistry of ancient Egyptian civilization, leading to increased tourism and scholarly research. Additionally, it raised awareness about the importance of preserving archaeological sites and prompted discussions about cultural heritage management in contexts where ancient treasures are at risk from looting or environmental threats.

Related terms

New Kingdom: The New Kingdom is the period in ancient Egyptian history from the 16th to the 11th century BCE, known for its wealth, power, and cultural achievements.

Howard Carter: Howard Carter was a British archaeologist who is famous for discovering Tutankhamun's Tomb in the Valley of the Kings.

Valley of the Kings: The Valley of the Kings is a burial ground in Egypt that served as the final resting place for many pharaohs of the New Kingdom, including Tutankhamun.