Tutankhamun’s tomb at risk of collapse in most fragile state since its discovery 100 years ago
Experts demand urgent action to save Tutankhamun’s crumbling tomb
- Tutankhamun's tomb in Luxor is in its most fragile state since its discovery, with structural damage, water infiltration, and fungi accelerating its deterioration.
- The tomb is suffering from spreading cracks across ceilings, peeling rock layers due to humidity, and fading mural colours, raising concerns about deformation and potential collapse.
- Experts link the damage to a major fissure allowing rainwater to seep in, the natural expansion and contraction of the Esna shale rock, and increased humidity from past flash floods, notably a catastrophic event in 1994.
- Professor Mohamed Atia Hawash has highlighted the broader vulnerability of tombs in the Valley of the Kings and the absence of effective risk management plans.
- Archaeologists are calling for immediate action to preserve the Unesco World Heritage site.