National Geographic - Egypt Unwrapped (2008) Part 1 Secrets of the Valley of the Kings

A major series following experts using the latest research and modern techniques to unravel Egypt's greatest mysteries. With special access to sites across the country, the series travels from the pyramids and Sphinx in Giza and Saqqara down to the Valley of the Kings near Luxor and the great rock temples of Abu Simbel in southern Egypt. From the Sphinx and the pyramids to the rules of Cleopatra and the Scorpion King, the legends and mysteries of ancient Egypt have aroused endless speculation for centuries. In this series we take a look at the treasures of ancient Egypt and redefine the way we look at their culture. Today, Egyptologists are still trying to unravel its many mysteries. Who is this unknown man entombed with Egypt's greatest pharaohs, his face contorted as if screaming? Who was the Scorpion King? Who built the sphinx, and when? What was Cleopatra like in real life? How did an ancient civilization, lacking even the most basic iron tools, manage to manufacture the most enduring buildings ever constructed? Find out more with Egypt Unwrapped and get the latest scientific explanations on many historical mysteries. How were the pyramids built and why did the golden age of construction end? National Geographic combs the ancient sands unearthing new clues in a quest to unravel Egypt's greatest mysteries. The series investigates the origins of Egyptian civilisation and the real history behind the legend, and reveals new insights into Egypt's great figures including Ramses II, Cleopatra, Alexander The Great and King Tut.

Part 1 Secrets of the Valley of the Kings

Built over 500 years, spanning nearly two and a half miles and holding 63 tombs, Egypt's Valley of the Kings is a staggering, complex set of enigmas locked beneath the sands for 3,500 years. What drove Egypt's greatest pharaohs to seek out this secluded valley? How did the ancient craftsmen achieve such feats of engineering? And why was this sacred site finally abandoned? Join National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Zahi Hawass and a team of experts as they uncover new evidence about how early engineers were able to construct the elaborate structures of tombs and chambers.

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