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Discovery of Pharaoh Thutmose II’s Tomb in Egypt
Archaeologists have made a significant find in a less explored area of the Valley of Kings, unveiling the tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II, a ruler from Egypt’s New Kingdom. This discovery stands out as the first of its kind since the unveiling of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, an event that captured global attention.
Thutmose II’s history is somewhat overshadowed by that of his widow, Hatshepsut, who served as his regent after his early death at the age of 30. Thutmose II’s reign lasted only five years, during which he battled a debilitating disease that left him physically marked. Hatshepsut, recognized as Egypt’s second known female pharaoh, emerged as a pivotal figure in Egyptian history, eclipsing her husband’s legacy.
A Tomb Unearthed
Limestone debris cluttered the entrance to the tomb. Photo: Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities
In 2022, a collaborative Egyptian-British archaeological team uncovered hints of a staircase leading to the tomb beneath a prominent cliff. After several months of painstaking excavation, the team cleared away the accumulated stones, revealing a stark tomb devoid of a sarcophagus or typical grave offerings. Instead, the cavernous space was filled with large limestone debris, while the ceiling was adorned with intricately painted stars and walls illustrated with depictions from the Amduat, indicating its royal significance.
The absence of a body raised questions about what had happened within this tomb. As the team continued their investigation, they discovered alabaster fragments bearing the names of both Thutmose II and Hatshepsut, providing crucial clues about the tomb’s occupant.
Evidence of a Past Flood
While many empty tombs are typically associated with grave robbers, the situation here appeared different. The orderly arrangement of the debris suggested a managed evacuation post-disaster, rather than looting. Researchers believe that an intense flooding episode due to nearby waterfalls could have inundated the tomb just a few years after Thutmose II’s burial.
Lead archaeologist Dr. Piers Litherland noted the serendipity of the broken alabaster artifacts, stating, “And thank goodness they did actually break one or two things, because that’s how we found out whose tomb it was.”
The Fate of Thutmose II’s Remains
Egyptologists have long been aware of Thutmose II’s final resting place since he was interred in the Royal Cache at Deir el-Bahri alongside other royals in 1881. This communal burial site was established approximately 500 years posthumously for those whose original tombs had deteriorated.
Insights from a French Egyptologist who examined Thutmose II’s mummy highlighted his similarity to his father, Thutmose I, while also noting the effects of a disease that could not be mitigated during mummification. The analysis provided a glimpse into the life of a young king who faced premature death.
Compounding the mystery, should the tomb of Thutmose II also house artifacts predating his relocation, these could deepen the understanding of his brief yet impactful rule. Additionally, the discovery could shed light on Hatshepsut’s legacy, as her stepson Thutmose III attempted to erase her contributions from history following her death.
The search for Thutmose II’s original burial items may unveil significant details about his short-lived reign and the intricacies of royal life in ancient Egypt.
Source
explorersweb.com