Secondary Resources > KS3 History / GCSE History

Opening King Tut's tomb

King Tutankhamun has captivated the world since his tomb was discovered in 1922.

Unearthed by British archaeologist Howard Carter, it was the first time a pharaoh's burial chamber had been found intact. Today millions have viewed Tutankhamun's treasures but questions remain over how the teenage king died. Now with the aid of forensic techniques we may be closer than ever to understanding this ancient mystery.

What finished off the pharaoh?

King Tut’s skeleton has been dismantled and stuck back together, photographed and x-rayed, had CT scans and DNA tests. But do we now know how he died? Click on the theories and decide for yourself.

Life after death: Tutmania

King Tutankhamun was a minor pharaoh who reigned for nine years more than 3,000 years ago. Yet today he is one of the best known kings of Ancient Egypt. Browse the images below o see how his legend has grown.

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In November 1922 Howard Carter opened Tutankhamun's tomb. It was the first pharaoh's tomb to be found that was almost intact. It contained 5,398 artefacts including two thrones, six chariots, a solid gold death mask and coffin holding his mummy.
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The discovery made headlines around the world. The Times published the first exclusive report in January 1923. It had a deal with Lord Carnarvon, the peer who had funded the dig. Daily coverage captivated a global audience.
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Visitors to the Valley of the Kings multiplied as thousands arrived to watch the unfolding excavation. Travel companies like Thomas Cook and Cunard took advantage of this creating special Egyptian tours.
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With no access to the tomb rival papers began to publish sensationalist stories. When Lord Carnarvon died following an insect bite they were quick to report rumours of an ancient curse. These reports inspired a Hollywood film, The Mummy in 1932.
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In the U.S the name Tutankhamun was shortened to King Tut and inspired Egyptian-themed music and dances. There were two rival hit records about the pharaoh, with lyrics such as: 'His tomb instead of tears, Was full of souvenirs.'
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Everyone wanted a piece of Tutankhamun - even U.S President Hoover's dog was named King Tut after the pharaoh. Mass production meant companies could exploit this popular new brand giving the name to a wide array of sometimes surprising products.
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The fashion world took inspiration from this new global celebrity, embellishing dresses and coats with Egyptian motifs. Meanwhile women with daring bobbed hair gained confidence after discovering Ancient Egyptian women had a similar style.
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Those keen to experience Tut's tomb could visit a replica of the antechamber in Wembley. It was built by sculptor William Aumonier for the British Empire Exhibition of 1924. He created the contents out of wood, plaster and gold leaf based on photos.
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Tutmania was still going strong 50 years after the tomb's discovery. In 1972 the British Museum launched an exhibition containing objects from the tomb. It attracted 1.6 million visitors and was the most popular exhibition in the museum's history.
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People are still fascinated by Tutankhamun today thanks to touring exhibitions as well as continuing scientific work on his remains. Tut only ruled for nine years but his legacy shows no sign of fading away.

How do you solve the mystery of Tutankhamun's death?

Opening King Tut's tomb

What finished off the pharaoh?

Life after death: Tutmania

Learn more