Tutankhamun’s 3,300-year-old tomb in the Valley of the Kingsone of its most important areas ancient egyptlocated in serious risk of collapseaccording to new warnings archaeologists. Cairo University researchers they found a large crack running through the roof of the entrance and burial chamber, which allows rainwater to seep inside. This extensive network of cracks causes erosion and weakens the static adequacy of the monument. The tomb is made of Esna shale rock, which expands and contracts with changes in humidity, making the possibility of total collapse even more alarming.

The increasing humidity has begun to peel off the frescoes and favor the growth of fungi that destroy the priceless displays. The flood of 1994 is considered decisive, as the water that then entered the burial chamber created new cracks, increased humidity levels and caused severe damage to the works of art.

Professor Sayed Hemada, head of the research, points out that the tombs of the Valley of the Kings need immediate intervention and scientific study to address the risks. The geology of the area itself makes the tombs extremely vulnerable to flash floods and landslides, while continued pressure on the bedrock can lead to a ‘rock burst’ phenomenon, i.e. a sudden collapse of the walls.

Although, according to experts, the tomb is not in imminent danger of collapsing, its long-term stability is seriously threatened and it is possible that it will not last for thousands of years as its creators had predicted. Professor Mohammed Atia Hawass also warns that the surrounding mountains have developed extensive fissures, with large boulders at risk of dislodging and crushing neighboring graves. “A disaster can happen at any time,” he notes, stressing that action must be taken as soon as possible to preserve the Valley of the Kings.