For the first time since Tutankhamun: archaeologists have uncovered the lost tomb of a pharaoh (photos available).

Archaeologists have uncovered the long-lost tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II from the Eighteenth Dynasty. The burial site, found in the Western Valley, sheds new light on the ruler, whose legacy is largely overshadowed by one of the most powerful queens in history, reports Heritage Daily.

Thutmose II, son of Thutmose I and his junior wife Mutnofret, ruled Egypt during a time of political transformation. His reign is often associated with his wife and half-sister Hatshepsut, who later ascended the throne as pharaoh.

Many scholars suggest that it was Hatshepsut who held real power during his reign, as evidenced by the alterations she made to monuments originally dedicated to Thutmose II. His name was frequently replaced with hers in royal inscriptions, further diminishing his historical significance.

The tomb, designated C4, was opened in October 2022 by a joint team from the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the New Kingdom Research Fund at Cambridge University.

Initially, it was believed that the burial belonged to a royal consort due to its proximity to the tombs of the wives of Thutmose III, but further analysis confirmed that it is the final resting place of Thutmose II. This marks the first discovery of a royal tomb of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh since the excavation of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922.

Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities of Egypt, highlighted key evidence from the site, particularly fragments of alabaster vessels inscribed with "the deceased pharaoh" next to the name of Hatshepsut.

Dr. Pearce Leaderland, who led the British team, noted that the tomb reflects a simple architectural style favored by the rulers who succeeded Thutmose II.

Historical records indicate that the remains of Thutmose II were moved in antiquity to the Royal Cache (TT320) near Deir el-Bahari, where they were buried alongside other leaders of the 18th and 19th dynasties. This burial site was rediscovered in the 19th century, but the true location of his tomb remained a mystery—until now.

We also reported on the Etruscan tombs discovered in Italy. Despite the looting of past generations, archaeologists have found numerous artifacts.