Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings (Arabic: وادي الملوك Wādī al Mulūk) is a valley in Egypt. From the 16th to 11th centuries BC, tombs were built there for the Pharaohs and powerful nobles. The valley is on the west bank of the Nile across from Luxor. Some of the people buried there are: Thutmose I Hatshepsut Thutmose III Tutankhamun Seti I Ramesses II The valley is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. In 1979 it became a World Heritage Site, with the rest of the Theban Necropolis. Exploration, excavation and conservation continues in the valley, and a new tourist centre has recently been opened. Geology and climate There is little year-round rain in this part of Egypt, but there are rare flash floods that hit the valley. These tons of debris into the open tombs. References Further reading Siliotti, Alberto (1997). Guide to the Valley of the Kings. Barnes and Noble. ISBN 88-8095-496-2. – A good introduction to the valley and surroundings