Luxor unveils two restored tombs after 11 years of work

The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt, Sherif Fathy, and Luxor Governor Abdel Muttalib Emara inaugurated on Thursday the tombs of Amenhotep “Rabouya” (TT416) and his son Samut (TT417) in El-Khokha area, on Luxor’s west bank, following completion of restoration and site development works.

Fathy emphasized that archaeological preservation is an absolute priority to ensure sustainability for future generations.

He described the project as a journey spanning from 2015 to 2026 and thanked the governor and the archaeological team for their success.

The minister stressed that private-sector cooperation for on-site services will enhance visitor experience, under strict ministry supervision. “Development must go hand in hand with conservation efforts guided by clear performance indicators,” he added.

Governor Emara stated that Luxor continues to reveal new secrets through the ministry’s efforts, reaffirming the status of the City as a cultural tourism capital.

He announced that “Decent Life” sanitation projects would begin in July to protect West Bank sites from groundwater ahead of the peak season in October.

Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the opening of two restored ancient tombs is a major asset for the archaeological sites of Egypt, given their outstanding historical and cultural value.