KV20

KV20 is a tomb located in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt. It is believed to be the burial place of Hatshepsut, a pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty, and possibly her father Thutmose I. The tomb was discovered by Howard Carter in 1903.

The tomb is notable for its size and its complex layout. It features a long descending corridor that leads to a series of chambers and passages. The decorative program within KV20 is extensive, depicting scenes from the Book of the Dead and other religious texts, as well as scenes relating to Hatshepsut's reign. The sarcophagus found within the tomb is one of the largest ever discovered in the Valley of the Kings.

Archaeological evidence suggests that KV20 was originally designed for Thutmose I, but was later expanded and redecorated for Hatshepsut. This expansion is thought to have occurred during her co-regency with Thutmose III. The tomb's elaborate decoration and impressive scale reflect Hatshepsut's significant status as one of the few female pharaohs. While the tomb was likely robbed in antiquity, the surviving decorations and artifacts provide valuable insights into the funerary practices and religious beliefs of the New Kingdom period. The tomb is a significant historical site, offering important information about Hatshepsut's reign and her efforts to legitimize her rule.