Tomb of Tuthmosis III

Why is the Tomb of Tuthmosis III considered one of the most sophisticated in the entire Valley of the Kings? Let me tell you. We are standing now before the entrance of the Tomb of Tuthmosis III. This tomb, discovered in 1898, reveals a fascinating story. Unlike other royal tombs that lie hidden at ground level, this one sits high above us, carved into the bedrock cliffs. The ancient architects designed a complex layout to reach the burial chamber. Imagine, a steep stairway, two long corridors, a ritual shaft adorned with a painted blue sky and yellow stars. Then a sharp 90-degree turn leads into the vestibule and finally to the grand burial chamber. The Tomb of Tuthmosis III is significant for another reason. It is the first tomb in the Valley of the Kings to feature painted plaster decorations and incorporate elements inspired by Middle Kingdom pyramids. The burial chamber itself, though plundered by tomb robbers, still holds a magnificent red quartzite sarcophagus. Sadly, the mummy of Tuthmosis III was not found here. It was discovered in the Deir el-Bahri cache, suggesting it had been moved to protect it from looters. The walls of the burial chamber are a masterpiece in themselves. They are adorned with the complete text of the Amduat, the “Book of the Secret Room.” This intricate text guided the deceased through the 12 hours of the night in the afterlife. The Tomb of Tuthmosis III is a testament to the grandeur and the belief system of the pharaohs, a story etched in stone and color.