KV2 - Tomb of Ramses IV — Attraction in Luxor

The Tomb of Ramses IV (KV2) is one of the most frequently visited monuments in the Valley of the Kings, owing to its location close to the entrance and its inclusion in the standard admission ticket. Ramses IV, the third pharaoh of the 20th Dynasty, ruled for a relatively short period between 1155 and 1149 BC. Though his reign was overshadowed by political challenges and economic decline in the late New Kingdom, he sought to continue the grandeur of his father Ramses III through ambitious expeditions and building projects. His tomb, however, stands as his most enduring legacy—a remarkable fusion of accessibility, artistry, and spirituality.

Unlike the complex, labyrinthine structures of earlier rulers, KV2 follows a simple rectilinear axis that leads visitors directly through wide corridors into the burial chamber. The walls are adorned with some of the most important funerary compositions of the New Kingdom, including the Book of Gates, the Book of Caverns, the Litany of Re, and the Amduat, each intended to guide the king safely through the afterlife. The ceilings are particularly striking, painted with astronomical scenes of constellations and sky deities that transform the chamber into a vision of the heavens. At the heart of the burial chamber lies the massive granite sarcophagus, now broken, yet still an imposing reminder of the pharaoh’s presence.

What makes the experience unique is not only the art but also its accessibility. Because the tomb is so close to the entrance and included in the general Valley of the Kings ticket, it is often one of the first visited by travelers and can be crowded throughout the day. Its straight, spacious passageways make it among the easiest tombs to explore, even for those with limited time or mobility. Photography with mobile phones is permitted, allowing visitors to capture the vivid astronomical ceilings and intricate wall scenes.

To step inside KV2 is to step into a world where earth and sky merge. While it may lack the depth and mystery of more elaborate tombs, it offers a clear and powerful glimpse into the beliefs of the New Kingdom. The Tomb of Ramses IV is not just convenient—it is a defining memory of the Valley of the Kings, where visitors are welcomed into a painted universe of gods, stars, and...

A Time Capsule of Scribbles: Exploring Ramesses IV's Tomb (KV2)

Nestled among the grandeur of Egypt's Valley of the Kings, Tomb KV2 holds a unique charm. Sure, it boasts the legacy of Pharaoh Ramesses IV, but its walls whisper stories far exceeding a single ruler's reign. Prepare to be captivated by layers of history etched in ancient ink.

Imagine this: explorers stumbling upon this tomb as early as antiquity! KV2 stands as one of the eleven tombs welcoming ancient travelers, becoming a canvas for their curiosity. Today, it proudly displays the second-highest concentration of ancient graffiti in the valley, a staggering 656 messages!

Gaze upon the delicate strokes left by Greek and Roman visitors, whispers of their wonderment as they encountered this pharaoh's eternal resting place. Then, step back in time further, to the era of Coptic monks who found solace within these walls. Their faith echoes in the 50 or so Coptic scribblings adorning the right wall near the entrance, alongside depictions of saints and crosses, silent testaments to a different kind of reverence.

Exploring KV2 is like embarking on a historical treasure hunt. Each mark, each inscription, unveils a piece of the tomb's rich tapestry, weaving together tales of pharaohs, explorers, and devout souls. So, next time you find yourself in the Valley of the Kings, don't just admire the grand architecture; pause, listen to the whispers of the walls, and let KV2 transport you...

One of the most visited tombs in the valley. It has nice lighting inside which allows to admire the beautiful paintings. wooden walkways and glass panels. KV 2 was spared floodwater damage, and the painted decoration on the walls is well-preserved. it's obvious that lots of conservation work had been done to make the tomb as beautiful as it was more than 3000 years ago. The 89 meters corridor ends with the burial chamber. The sarcophagus is still in its place, the mummy of Ramses IV was found in KV35 and can be seen in The...