Monday, 25 May 2026
Thutmose II tomb named top 10 discovery of 2025 by Archaeology magazine
The discovery of the tomb of ancient Egyptian pharaoh Thutmose II has secured a prominent spot in Archaeology magazine's list of the top 10 archaeological discoveries of 2025. The prestigious American publication highlighted the find—originally announced by Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in February 2025—as one of the world's most significant breakthroughs of the year. This marks the first royal tomb from Egypt's 18th Dynasty uncovered since Howard Carter's famous discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922.
One of the tomb's striking inscriptions, featuring sections from the Amduat (Book of the Hidden Chamber)—an ancient funerary text reserved for pharaohs—graced the cover of the magazine's January-February 2026 issue.
Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, described the recognition as further confirmation of the exceptional value of Egyptian archaeological discoveries. "This achievement underscores Egypt's leading scientific position in the field of archaeology," he said, emphasizing the fruits of ongoing collaboration between Egyptian and international missions. Such efforts, he added, continue to yield high-quality finds that enrich our understanding of ancient Egyptian history and human knowledge.
The tomb was unearthed by a joint Egyptian-British mission involving the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the New Kingdom Research Foundation. Excavations took place at tomb C4 in the Theban Mountain west of Luxor.
Initially, the team believed the site might belong to a royal wife, given its proximity to tombs associated with the wives of Thutmose III and Queen Hatshepsut (who was prepared for burial as a royal consort before ascending to the throne). However, further digging revealed decisive evidence, including alabaster vessel fragments inscribed with Thutmose II's name and references to him as the "deceased king," confirming his ownership.
Excavations also uncovered mortar fragments bearing blue inscriptions and yellow sky stars, along with decorations and texts from the Amduat. The tomb's simple architectural design is considered a prototype that influenced the layouts of later 18th Dynasty royal tombs.
This breakthrough resolves the mystery of the last missing 18th Dynasty pharaoh's burial site and highlights the enduring allure of Egypt's ancient heritage.