The archaeological wonders of Ancient Egypt may be as geographically distanced from the modern city of Las Vegas as possible, but visitors to Vegas will be happy to note that they too can retrace the steps of one of the greatest discoveries in the world – the tomb of the King Tutankhamun. The Luxor Hotel & Casino, with its Egyptian theme, has created one of the city’s top tourist attractions in the form of an exact replica of the wondrous tomb as it looked when it was discovered by the explorer, Howard Carter, in 1922. In fact, after seeing this exhibit, visitors will realize why Carter exclaimed that he was seeing “wonderful things” after his first peek into the tomb.
The King Tut Museum in Las Vegas is the only full-scale replica of the tomb that was ever created outside the borders of Egypt. There are hundreds of objects included in the exhibit, all of them created by Egyptian craftsmen to their exact size, using precise measurements and original materials. All the artifacts have been arranged precisely in the positions noted in the records that Carter kept. Nowhere else, besides the original Tutankhamun tomb, will visitors be able to experience exactly what Carter felt so many decades ago. This fact in itself makes the museum a must-see during a visit to Vegas.
Visitors should allow around half an hour to an hour to see the entire exhibition. The visit begins with a 15 minute self guided audio tour, with a video of the history of the original tomb’s discovery being screened before the actual tour begins. During this time, one is able to see the beauty of the discoveries, including the famous guardian statues and a multitude of artifacts that were buried with this powerful Egyptian leader for his final journey to the afterlife.
The King Tut museum features four different areas: The Annex, which held furniture, including travel beds; the Treasury, which held sculptures of gods, and small boats to symbolize the King’s passage into the next life; the Antechamber, which comprised a golden throne, life-sized statues and several beds; and finally, the Burial Chamber where the king was buried in a golden coffin. Visitors can stroll through these areas, taking in the magnificence, appreciating the intricate details and gaining a better understanding of the importance of this man.
Besides the excellent replicas in the museum, there are several authentic pieces housed there as well, including a piece of the rock used to build the pyramids in Giza during King Tut’s time.
After the tour, visitors can take some time to browse around the gift store that stocks King Tut souvenirs and memorabilia and take home a little piece of fascinating Egyptian history. The museum and store are open every day from 10 am to 11 pm. The King Tut Museum at the Luxor provides an excellent way take a break from the bustle of Vegas and immerse oneself in the mystery and splendor of Ancient Egypt. |
