Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1534781
Flanked by more than a thousand statues, the spectacular road was buried under sand until 1949, and efforts to excavate were repeatedly interrupted by political upheaval. Another site given new life is Tutankhamun's tomb in the Valley of the Kings. This month marks the 100th anniversary of its discovery by British archaeologist Howard Carter. It was November 26, 1922, when he and his sponsor Lord Carnarvon opened the 3000-year-old tomb, renowned as the only royal burial chamber found intact in modern times. When we descend the steps into the crypt, we find it in exceptional condition. The wall paintings, once covered by centuries of dirt and damage, are clean and vibrant. The mummy of the young king lies under white fabric in a climate-controlled glass case, his face and feet in full view. In another room is the sarcophagus, which once contained the legendary pharaoh's three nested coffins. More than 5000 treasures contained in Tut's tomb have been transferred to the new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, which is expected to open in 2023 after several postponements. The most exquisite tomb is dedicated to Nefertari, in the less-visited Valley of the Queens. Room after room is filled with remarkably well-preserved art in vivid colours and details. Adorning more than 500sqm are scenes from the Book of the Dead that depict Queen Nefertari being guided by gods to the afterlife through ceremonies and tests. Due to the cost of the entry ticket (about $95) and a time limit of 10 minutes a person, fewer tourists flock to this lavish lair, so it's worth the detour. Arriving in Aswan, some passengers take the option of a day trip to Abu Simel. Originally cut into a mountainside, these twin temples were dismantled in 1964 and reassembled, piece by piece, in a less flood-prone location. The UNESCO-led project rescued the complex from the Nile's rising waters and made way for the Aswan High Dam. Other guests spend the day visiting the dam before sailing down the river on a traditional felucca. To travel back in time, cruise passengers need only observe the passing sights of the Nile, which continues to support communities along its fertile banks. Farmers and fishermen carry on the daily grind, while children play in the water and wave at boats. K o m O m b o Te m p l e , A s w a n 32 VIKING