TOMBS OF THE KINGS IS an ancient necropolis containing numerous large tombs dating from the 4th century BCE to the 3rd century AD. The name is something of a misnomer as no kings are thought to have been buried here. The name, rather, refers to the magnificence of the tombs, which were the burial places of wealthy senior government officials and aristocrats.
Many of the tombs are very elaborate with decorated walls and columns carved out of the solid rock. The site is fascinating and very important historically, dubbed a UNESCO World heritage site. A particular type of amphora was commonly buried with the dead and these ceramics always contain a stamp that allows archaeologists to date them and other items found in the same burial.
