Valley of the Kings

So after awhile, the pharaohs learned that stuffing their mummified bodies into golden sarcophagus’ and then into giant pyramids filled with gold and jewels might not be such a smart idea. I mean, let’s face it, pyramids are like giant, blinking neon signs to every tomb raider, jewel thief, and grave robber in the area. 

So the pharaohs picked a spot near some nondescript mountains and began digging deep caverns and tombs. Then they decorated them to the nines. Elaborate sculptures and hieroglyphs and paintings throughout. Each king would get his own tomb. Today this area is called Valley of the Kings. And it is the Mecca for Egyptology. And now I am going exploring here! 

But before we go there, we make a quick trip to Hatshepsut’s (I call her “hot soup”) Mortuary Temple. Hatshepsut was one of the few female rulers of Egypt, and often dressed as a man. 

Now to the Valley of the Kings!!

King 

King Ramses II Tomb

You know this guy:

(Yes that’s his real mummified body!)

Valley of the Kings is truly amazing. With over 63 known tombs, including King Tut’s which was the only tomb discovered in modern times that had never been entered, this truly is an archaeologist’s dream. I’m privileged to have had this opportunity to see it all. Now it’s off to an alabaster shop, then a quick boatride for lunch. 

We have explored all there is to explore along the Nile, and now it’s time to leave the big ship and head to Hurghada, a vacation resort spot on the edge of the Red Sea. I hear they have some world-class diving. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for some R&R!!