Kv20

KV20 Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Luxor, Egypt

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to KV20: A Window into Ancient Egypt’s Royal Past

Nestled in the heart of the Valley of the Kings on Luxor’s West Bank, KV20 stands as one of Egypt’s most historically significant royal tombs. Initially constructed for Pharaoh Thutmose I (c. 1506–1493 BCE) and later expanded by his daughter, the formidable Queen Hatshepsut (c. 1479–1458 BCE), KV20 offers a unique lens on New Kingdom funerary traditions and royal ideology. Its architectural innovations, political symbolism, and archaeological finds contribute to our understanding of the era’s dynastic strategies and religious beliefs (maat-ka-ra.de; Wikipedia - KV20).

While much of the tomb’s original decoration has been lost, discoveries such as the quartzite sarcophagi and funerary texts have enriched our appreciation of early New Kingdom burial customs, especially as they relate to Hatshepsut’s unprecedented reign as a female pharaoh (Ancient Origins; Pyramids Land). Due to its ongoing conservation and fragile condition, KV20 is not generally open to the public; however, the broader Valley of the Kings remains accessible and contextualizes the tomb’s enduring legacy (egypttoursbylocals.com; egipto.com).

Historical Background of KV20
Architectural Features and Layout
Artistic and Epigraphic Remains
Archaeological Finds and Significance
Role in the Development of the Valley of the Kings
Conservation and Ongoing Research
KV20’s Legacy: Female Pharaohs and Royal Ideology
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, and Tips
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
FAQs
Visuals and Media Recommendations
Cultural Etiquette and Responsible Tourism
Emergency Contacts, Health, and Language
Summary Table: Key Practical Information
Conclusion and Call to Action
References and Further Reading

Historical Background of KV20

Early Construction and Dynastic Purpose

KV20 was established during the reign of Thutmose I and later expanded by his daughter, Hatshepsut. The tomb’s initial purpose was to serve as Thutmose I’s final resting place, but Hatshepsut—who asserted herself as pharaoh in a male-dominated dynasty—transformed it into a joint burial. This move symbolized her legitimacy and continuity of royal lineage (maat-ka-ra.de; Pyramids Land).

Discovery and Excavation

KV20 caught the attention of early explorers by the late 18th and early 19th centuries, but it was not until Howard Carter’s systematic work in the early 1900s that the tomb’s significance was fully revealed. Excavations unearthed large quartzite sarcophagi for both rulers and foundation deposits linking the tomb directly to Hatshepsut and Thutmose I (Ancient Origins).

Architectural Features and Layout

KV20 is notable for its unusual, steeply spiraling corridors—curving clockwise and descending more than 90 meters into the Theban cliffs—making it among the deepest and most complex tombs in the valley (Wikipedia - KV20). The tomb consists of five primary corridors, with only two ending in burial chambers. This design reflects both practical concerns (deterring tomb robbers) and religious symbolism, echoing the sun god Ra’s journey through the underworld (The Ancient Pharaohs).

Artistic and Epigraphic Remains

Although most of the original wall decorations have disappeared, fragmentary evidence suggests the presence of funerary texts and scenes associated with the journey through the afterlife. The craftsmanship of the sarcophagi and foundation deposits further underscores the tomb’s royal status (Luxor Egypt Tours).

Archaeological Finds and Significance

Despite ancient and modern looting, KV20 has yielded significant artifacts, such as two massive quartzite sarcophagi (one inscribed for each ruler) and a wooden canopic box bearing Hatshepsut’s name. These finds are crucial for understanding New Kingdom funerary culture and the political context of Hatshepsut’s reign (Pyramids Land). Notably, some funerary items uncovered in the tomb are on display in Cairo’s Egyptian Museum.

Recent discoveries elsewhere in Luxor, including new tombs in Dra’ Abu el-Naga and the tomb of Thutmose II, further highlight the ongoing archaeological significance of the region (Outlook Traveller).

Role in the Development of the Valley of the Kings

KV20’s construction marked a pivotal point in the evolution of royal burials. As the earliest known royal tomb in the valley, its design influenced subsequent tombs and underscored the shift from pyramid burials to hidden, rock-cut tombs in secluded locations for enhanced security and alignment with religious beliefs (Earth Trekkers).

Conservation and Ongoing Research

KV20’s fragile condition necessitates ongoing conservation, with architectural surveys and documentation projects like the Theban Mapping Project ensuring its preservation (Egypt Planners). Modern technologies continue to reveal new details about the tomb’s construction, use, and the fate of its occupants.

KV20’s Legacy: Female Pharaohs and Royal Ideology

KV20 is a rare monument to a female pharaoh’s reign, reflecting Hatshepsut’s strategies for legitimizing her rule—including adopting male royal titles and iconography, and sharing a tomb with her father. This dual burial design and the tomb’s religious motifs highlight her unique place in ancient Egyptian history (Pyramids Land).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, and Tips

Visiting Hours

KV20: Generally closed to the public for conservation; access may be possible during special supervised visits.
Valley of the Kings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (seasonal variations possible; confirm in advance) (egipto.com).

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for the Valley of the Kings are available at the entrance or online. Standard tickets grant access to three tombs; special tombs (e.g., Tutankhamun’s) require additional fees.
KV20: Not included in standard tickets due to closure. Confirm any special access or permits with your tour operator or the visitor center.
Passes: The Luxor Pass covers most West and East Bank sites, including the Valley of the Kings (egypttoursbylocals.com).
Discounts: International student IDs may yield up to 50% off entrance fees.

Accessibility

The Valley of the Kings is accessible by taxi, private car, guided tour, bicycle, or donkey (egypttoursbylocals.com).
KV20’s steep corridors and uneven terrain make it inaccessible to those with mobility challenges.
Electric trams operate between the visitor center and tomb entrances.

Travel Tips

Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, sun protection, and a hat.
Combine your Valley of the Kings tour with nearby attractions for a fuller experience.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

What to See Near KV20

Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari: Monumental temple honoring Hatshepsut’s reign.
Other Tombs: KV62 (Tutankhamun), the tomb of Ramses VI, and more.
Luxor Museum: Artifacts from KV20 and other sites.
Dra’ Abu el-Naga Necropolis: Recent archaeological discoveries (Outlook Traveller).

FAQs

Q: Can I visit KV20?
A: No. KV20 is generally closed to the public due to conservation efforts.

Q: How can I learn about KV20 during my visit?
A: Explore the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Luxor Museum—guided tours and exhibits provide rich context.

Q: What are the Valley of the Kings’ visiting hours?
A: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (confirm seasonal variations).

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: At the site entrance or online; special tombs may require additional fees or permits.

Q: Are there guided tours about KV20?
A: Many guided tours discuss KV20’s history, even if the tomb itself is not accessible.

Visuals and Media Recommendations

Use high-resolution images showing KV20’s exterior, Valley of the Kings maps, and artifacts like Hatshepsut’s sarcophagus.
Alt tags should include descriptions such as “KV20 Tomb entrance in Luxor” or “Quartzite sarcophagus of Hatshepsut from KV20.”
Where available, share virtual tours or interactive maps to engage visitors and boost SEO.

Cultural Etiquette and Responsible Tourism

Dress modestly and respect local customs.
Do not touch or deface artifacts or tomb walls.
Support local communities by hiring licensed guides and buying authentic souvenirs.
Dispose of waste responsibly and respect conservation zones (egypttoursbylocals.com).

Emergency Contacts, Health, and Language

Emergency assistance is available at the visitor center; nearest hospitals are in Luxor city.
Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and eat only at reputable venues.
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date (travel.gc.ca).
Arabic is the official language; English is widely spoken at tourist sites.

Summary Table: Key Practical Information

Aspect	Details
Location	Valley of the Kings, West Bank, Luxor
Access	Taxi, private car, guided tour, bicycle, donkey
Entrance Fee	EGP 220–740 per site; Luxor Pass available; student discounts up to 50%
Opening Hours	6:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Facilities	Visitor center with restrooms, café, gift shop; limited facilities at tombs
Accessibility	Steep, uneven terrain; limited access for those with mobility issues
Photography	Allowed (no flash inside tombs); check for restrictions
Health & Safety	Hydrate, wear sun protection, eat safely, bring medications
Local Customs	Dress modestly, respect local traditions, ask before photographing people
Emergency	Visitor center assistance; nearest hospital in Luxor city

Conclusion and Call to Action

KV20 stands as a testament to the ingenuity, ambition, and spiritual beliefs of Ancient Egypt’s early New Kingdom period. Its architectural complexity and political symbolism, particularly in relation to Hatshepsut’s groundbreaking reign, continue to fascinate scholars and travelers alike. Although direct access to KV20 is currently restricted, visitors can explore its rich legacy through guided tours of the Valley of the Kings, museum exhibits, and digital resources.

For the most up-to-date information on access, tickets, and conservation, consult official sources or reputable tour operators before your visit. To enhance your journey, download the Audiala app for interactive guides and exclusive content, and follow us on social media for the latest updates on Egyptian archaeology.