Kv63

KV63 Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Luxor Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the legendary Valley of the Kings near Luxor, Egypt, KV63 stands as a significant archaeological discovery that has profoundly enhanced our understanding of ancient Egyptian embalming and funerary practices. Unearthed in 2005 by Dr. Otto Schaden and his team, KV63 distinguishes itself not as a royal tomb but as an embalming cache from the Eighteenth Dynasty. This site housed essential mummification materials—coffins, storage jars, linens, and botanical remains—offering rare insights into the logistical and ritual aspects of royal burials (Ancient Egypt Online; Wikipedia).

Although KV63 remains closed to the public as of June 2025 due to ongoing conservation and research, its discovery has revitalized archaeological interest in the Valley of the Kings. This comprehensive guide will explore KV63’s history, its archaeological significance, practical visiting information for the Valley of the Kings, and tips for making the most of your trip to Luxor and its historical sites (Rough Guides; Egypt Tours by Locals).

Introduction
Discovery and Location of KV63
Architectural Features and Layout
Function and Contents: Embalming Cache
Chronological Context
Archaeological Significance
Visiting KV63: What You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual and Interactive Resources
Key Facts Summary
Visiting the Valley of the Kings: Tickets & Travel Tips
The Cultural Landscape of the 18th Dynasty
References and Further Reading

Discovery and Location of KV63

KV63 is located on the west bank of the Nile within the East Valley—the most frequently explored section of the necropolis—near the tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62). Discovered in 2005 by Dr. Otto Schaden’s team from the University of Memphis, KV63 became the first new chamber found in the Valley since the iconic discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 (Ancient Egypt Online; History Skills; kv-63.com).

Architectural Features and Layout

In contrast to the grand royal tombs of the Valley, KV63 is a modest, undecorated limestone chamber measuring approximately 4 by 5 meters, accessible via a 5-meter-deep shaft. Its single-room structure and simplicity reflect its specialized function as an embalming cache rather than a burial chamber (Ancient Egypt Online).

Function and Contents: Embalming Cache

Purpose and Use

Initial excitement about KV63’s potential as a royal tomb gave way to new insights when excavations revealed the absence of human remains. Instead, the chamber served as a storage site for embalming materials and mummification paraphernalia (Springer Link; White Levy Project).

Key Artifacts

Seven wooden coffins (some child-sized), all empty of human remains but filled with embalming substances like natron, linens, and pillows.
28 large sealed storage jars containing salts, oils, linens, pottery shards, and tools.
Clay seal impressions with inscriptions, including “pa-aten,” possibly linked to Ankhesenamun, wife of Tutankhamun.
Botanical remains from at least 17 plant species, including pomegranate, olive, willow leaves, cornflower, safflower, blue lotus flowers, and fruits like date palm and ashwagandha. Linen strings bound the floral collars, reflecting funerary symbolism (Springer Link).
Unique finds such as a wooden bed with lions’ heads and a miniature pink gold coffin, indicating ritual use (kv-63.com).

Chronological Context

KV63 dates to the Eighteenth Dynasty of the New Kingdom (ca. 16th–13th centuries BCE), a golden age of Egyptian civilization. Its proximity to Tutankhamun’s tomb and the similarity of materials suggest a direct connection to the royal family or their embalmers (History Skills; Springer Link).

Archaeological Significance

Insights into Mummification Practices

KV63 offers rare, direct physical evidence of New Kingdom embalming, revealing the materials, botanical elements, and techniques used by ancient embalmers. The presence of floral collars and ritual objects links the chamber to royal funerary customs (Springer Link).

Comparison with Other Embalming Caches

KV63 is among the best-preserved embalming caches in the Valley, comparable to KV54 (also linked to Tutankhamun) but with a more complete assemblage. Comparative studies of these caches illuminate the complex logistics of royal funerary preparation (White Levy Project).

Contribution to Valley of the Kings Research

The discovery of KV63 has renewed excitement about the Valley’s archaeological potential. Its contents inform our understanding of funerary workshops, material sourcing, and the diversity of botanical offerings in ancient Egypt (Ancient Egypt Online).

Visiting KV63: What You Need to Know

Is KV63 Open to Visitors?

As of June 2025, KV63 remains closed to the public to protect its fragile contents and support ongoing research. Only authorized archaeologists and conservators have access.

Viewing KV63

While direct entry is restricted, visitors to the Valley of the Kings can view KV63’s location from designated paths. Occasionally, special tours or lectures may be organized by the Supreme Council of Antiquities or during academic conferences (University of Memphis).

Special Events and Exhibitions

Artifacts and findings from KV63 occasionally appear in museum exhibitions in Egypt and internationally. Updated information can be found on the KV-63 Project website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I visit KV63?
No, KV63 is closed to the public, but its location can be viewed from main pathways. Special events or exhibitions may provide limited access.

How do I get tickets for the Valley of the Kings?
Tickets are available at the main visitor center or online through authorized platforms.

What are the opening hours for the Valley of the Kings?
Typically, the Valley is open daily from 6:00–5:00 PM (or 6:30–5:30 PM, depending on the season).

Are guided tours available?
Yes, licensed guides offer tours of accessible tombs and sites. Guides provide explanations outside tombs due to site regulations.

Are there student discounts?
Students with valid IDs often receive a 50% discount. The Luxor Pass offers broader access for those planning multiple site visits.

Is the Valley of the Kings accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Some areas are challenging due to uneven terrain and stairs. The visitor center and tram provide limited assistance.

Visual and Interactive Resources

Enhance your visit with virtual tours and high-quality images of KV63 and related sites via museum websites and archaeological portals. Maps of the Valley of the Kings help with navigation and planning.

Key Facts Summary

Discovery: 2005 by Dr. Otto Schaden’s team
Location: East Valley, near KV62 (Tutankhamun)
Structure: Single chamber reached by shaft; undecorated
Contents: 7 coffins (no mummies), 28 jars with embalming materials and botanical remains
Function: Embalming cache, not a burial tomb
Period: Eighteenth Dynasty, New Kingdom (c. 16th–13th centuries BCE)
Significance: Direct evidence of mummification and royal funerary logistics

Visiting the Valley of the Kings: Tickets & Travel Tips

Location & Access

The Valley of the Kings is on the West Bank of Luxor, 7 km from the city center. Access is by car, taxi, minibus, or organized tour. The main visitor center is well signposted. Most visitors cross the Nile by ferry or bridge (Rough Guides).

Ticketing & Entry

Standard Ticket: EGP 240 (2025 rates), includes entry to three tombs from a rotating list.
Special Tickets: Required for tombs like Tutankhamun’s.
Luxor Pass: Offers access to most major sites on both banks (Egypt Tours by Locals).
Student Discounts: Up to 50% with valid ID.

Best Time to Visit

The cooler months (November–February) are ideal, with daytime highs of 20–25°C (68–77°F).

Getting Around

The Valley is best explored on foot, but electric trams from the visitor center help cover the distance to the tomb area. Terrain is rocky and uneven.

Photography

A separate photo pass is needed for cameras inside tombs. Flash is prohibited. Smartphone use is sometimes allowed—always check current rules (Rough Guides).

Health, Safety & Comfort

Bring bottled water and stay hydrated.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothes, a hat, and sturdy shoes.
Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential.
Restrooms are located at the visitor center.

Nearby Attractions

Temple of Hatshepsut: Striking terraced mortuary temple.
Valley of the Queens: Burial site for royal wives and princes.
Medinet Habu: Mortuary temple of Ramses III.

Dining & Accommodation

Cafés and restaurants are available near major West Bank sites. Luxor city offers a range of hotels, with options on both the East and West Banks (Rough Guides).

The Cultural Landscape of the 18th Dynasty

The 18th Dynasty (c. 1550–1292 BCE) marked a golden age in Egyptian history, with Thebes (Luxor) serving as the royal and religious center. Monumental tombs and temples, including those in the Valley of the Kings, reflect this era’s artistic and religious sophistication (archaeologymag.com; weseektravel.com).

KV63’s role as an embalming cache highlights the dynasty’s focus on the afterlife and the elaborate logistics involved in royal burials (landioustravel.com).

Plan Your Visit

To stay updated on KV63 and other archaeological news, follow official sources and use tools like the Audiala app for virtual tours and expert insights.

References and Further Reading

For a richer experience, include high-quality images of KV63, its artifacts, and the Valley of the Kings, with descriptive alt text. Consider linking to virtual tours and using internal links to related guides on Luxor’s treasures.