Egyptian archaeologists discover King Thutmose II’s hidden tomb

Archaeologists in Egypt have made a groundbreaking discovery, unearthing the long-lost tomb of King Thutmose II, a pharaoh whose reign has long been shrouded in mystery. 

While much of Thutmose II’s life remains a mystery, historians know that he ruled briefly over ancient Egypt about 3,500 years ago. Though his mummified remains were discovered in the 19th century as part of a larger royal collection, his original tomb had remained elusive — until now, a team of researchers released an article via Miami Herald.

A collaborative team of British and Egyptian archaeologists spent two years excavating a tomb known as No. C4, located a few miles west of Luxor. They discovered its entrance and main passage in 2022 and initially believed it might belong to the wife of an ancient king, according to a Facebook post by Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities on February 18. However, as they continued to study the tomb, archaeologists uncovered increasing evidence that pointed to it being the tomb of King Thutmose II.

The team discovered several fragments of an alabaster vase inscribed with the name of King Thutmose II, referring to him as the deceased king, according to officials. Additionally, the tomb contained parts of a religious text associated with the burial sites of ancient Egyptian rulers, as well as plaster fragments painted blue and adorned with yellow stars.

Archaeologists regarded these discoveries as definitive proof that Tomb No. C4 was originally the burial site of King Thutmose II.

Photos reveal the dilapidated condition of the 3,500-year-old tomb, along with some of its unique artifacts.

The tomb featured a straightforward layout, including an entrance, a sloping main passage, and a burial chamber. Archaeologists noted that its poor preservation was likely caused by flood damage shortly after the king's death.

Excavation work at the tomb continues, with many unanswered questions remaining about the timing and reasons behind the removal of the king's mummy from its original resting place.

The most recent discovery of an ancient Egyptian royal tomb was in 1922, when archaeologists uncovered the tomb of King Tutankhamun.

Luxor, located in central Egypt about 400 miles southeast of Cairo, is the site of ancient Thebes, the capital of the pharaohs.

By Naila Huseynova