In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery, a joint Egyptian-British team has unearthed the tomb of King Thutmose II near Luxor, Egypt. This marks the first royal tomb found since the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.

The tomb, located west of the Valley of the Kings, was initially thought to belong to a royal wife due to its proximity to other royal tombs. However, further excavations revealed a large doorway, a staircase, and walls adorned with royal scenes, indicating it was indeed a pharaoh’s tomb.

Artifacts found within the tomb, including alabaster jars inscribed with Thutmose II’s name, have confirmed its royal ownership. The tomb’s design features a blue-painted ceiling with yellow stars and scenes from the Amduat, a funerary text reserved for kings.

This discovery not only sheds light on the burial practices of the 18th Dynasty but also solves the long-standing mystery of the location of early 18th Dynasty kings’ tombs. It raises the possibility of finding a second, intact tomb of Thutmose II, as his remains were previously relocated due to ancient flooding.

The excavation team, led by British archaeologist Dr. Piers Litherland, has been working in the area for over a decade. Dr. Litherland, often referred to as “Scotland’s Indiana Jones,” has expressed excitement over the find, describing it as a significant moment for Egyptology.

This discovery is hailed as one of the most significant archaeological finds in recent years, offering new insights into ancient Egyptian history and culture.