The Valley of the Kings

Located on the west bank of the River Nile, the Valley of the Kings lies opposite to Thebes currently known as Luxor. Tombs of the pharaohs were constructed in this valley from the 16th to the 11th century BC. There are 63 tombs of various sizes including some being a small pit while there are others comprised of more than 120 chambers, decorated with the scenes from Egyptian mythology. Currently, the valley is best known for the exploration of the tomb of the pharaoh Tutankhamun. It is a worldrenowned archaeological site and was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1979.