Luxor, renowned for its rich archaeological heritage, has recently been the site of several significant discoveries and developments:
Archaeological Discoveries:
Tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II Uncovered: A team of British and Egyptian archaeologists has discovered the tomb of King Thutmose II near Luxor. This nearly 3,500-year-old tomb, found in the Western Valleys of the Theban Necropolis, is the first pharaonic tomb unearthed since King Tutankhamun's over a century ago.
Middle Kingdom Tomb with Intact Jewelry: Archaeologists have unearthed a Middle Kingdom tomb near Luxor containing 11 sealed burials and well-preserved jewelry. This tomb, dating back to 1938-1630 B.C., provides new insights into burial practices and craftsmanship of that era.
Queen Hatshepsut's Temple Blocks Discovered: Intact sections of Queen Hatshepsut's valley temple foundation wall have been uncovered in Luxor. Over 1,000 decorated stone blocks, notable for their extraordinary color and detail, offer valuable insights into the 18th dynasty queen's reign.
Ancient Rock-Cut Tombs and Burial Shafts: Near the temple of Queen Hatshepsut, archaeologists have revealed rock-cut tombs and burial shafts dating back 3,600 years. Artifacts such as bronze coins bearing Alexander the Great's image, children's clay toys, funerary masks, winged scarabs, and amulets were among the discoveries.
Tourism Initiatives:
- Visa Fee Waiver for Tourists: To boost tourism, Egypt has announced that Luxor will be visa-free for visitors this summer. This initiative, running from May to October, aims to attract more tourists during the hotter months, potentially saving a family of four £80 in visa costs.
These developments highlight Luxor's ongoing significance as a center for archaeological discovery and its commitment to enhancing tourism.
