Theban Mapping Project Articles

Theban Mapping Project Index of Articles

As a companion to the Atlas of the Valley of the Kings, this compilation of articles provides a broader understanding of the history and development of the Valley of the Kings and the cultural practices that have influenced and shaped the construction and utilization of the tombs in it. Copious photographs, maps and drawings illustrate each of these articles, authored by the Theban Mapping Project.

KV 5: Tomb of Sons of Rameses II

• KV 5 Excavation
• KV 5 Finds
• KV 5 History

Tomb Development

• Tombs in Collision
• Selection of Tomb Sites
• Development of Tombs
• Anatomy of a Tomb: Modern Tomb Designations
• Tomb Digging and Cutting Techniques
• Tomb Builders and Dayr al Madinah
• Decorating the Tombs
• Anatomy of a Tomb: Ancient Designations

History of the Valley of the Kings

• Historical Development of Royal Cemeteries outside Thebes and inside Thebes (Early Dynastic-Second Intermediate Period)
• The Valley of the Kings: Then and Now
• Tomb Robberies
• Tomb Numbering Systems in the Valley
• The Valley Today
• Geography and Geology of the Valley
• History of the Valley of the Kings (Third Intermediate Period-Byzantine Period)
• Exploration of the Valley of the Kings
• Historical Development of the Valley of the Kings in the New Kingdom

Mortuary Beliefs and Practices

• Funerary Equipment
• Foundation Deposits
• Funerary Compositions

Thebes Today

• Sun Bread from Luxor
• Pilgrimage Paintings
• Suq! Shopping in Thebes
• Thebes in Film