Definition of Valley of the kings

Valley of the Kings

Thebes, Luxor, Egypt
16th--11th century B.C.
Nearly all of Egypt's New Kingdom pharaohs--Tutankhamen, Seti I, and Rameses II, among them--are buried in the Valley of the Kings. Most of the 62 discovered tombs are elaborately decorated with painted wall friezes that are as much aesthetic marvels as narrative historical records. Even though the Valley remains Egypt's best known and most frequently visited ancient site, to date only the tomb of Tutankhamen has been the subject of a serious conservation study. All of the major historical sites in Luxor are faced with similar problems, including flash floods, geological slippage, pollution, and vandalism. But the greatest threat is posed by rapidly increasing numbers of tourists to the royal tombs who inflict considerable damage to the decorated walls. Funds are needed to develop a system to monitor and control the numbers of tourists. This involves installing protective railings and appropriate lighting, erecting accurate signage, relocating tourist facilities and parking areas, building visitors' centers, and developing strategies for effective site management. TheValley of the Kings is on the World Heritage List.