The two tombs add to the growing list of archaeological attractions open to visitors in the ancient Theban necropolis.
The tombs belong to Amenhotep, known as “Rebiu” (TT416), and his son Samut (TT417), and are located in the El-Khokha area. Their opening follows an extensive restoration and site development project aimed at preparing the monuments for public access.
Speaking during the inauguration, Fathy said the project reflects Egypt’s ongoing commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while making it accessible to visitors. He noted that such efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance the tourism experience and ensure the long-term sustainability of archaeological sites.
Hisham El-Leithy, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), described the opening as a significant addition to Luxor’s cultural tourism offerings, highlighting the historical importance of the tombs and their owners within ancient Egyptian society.
The restoration project went beyond conservation work to include improved visitor facilities, such as interpretive signage, shaded areas, and a bilingual guidebook designed to provide deeper insight into the site.
The tombs were first uncovered in 2015 during excavations by the American Research Centre in Egypt. They had been heavily damaged, buried under debris, and reused for collective burials in subsequent eras, including the Byzantine era.
Dating back to the New Kingdom, the tomb of Rebiu is attributed to the reign of King Thutmose III, while Samut’s tomb dates to King Thutmose IV. Both follow the characteristic T-shaped layout of elite tombs from Egypt’s 18th Dynasty.
Inside, the tombs feature vivid scenes of daily life in ancient Egypt, including agriculture, crafts, food production, fishing, and festive banquets. The funerary chambers depict rituals such as the transportation of the coffin, offerings before the gods Osiris and Hathor, and the “Opening of the Mouth” ceremony. Among the most distinctive scenes is a rare depiction of the goddess Renenutet nursing a royal child.
Restoration work included structural stabilization, cleaning and conservation of inscriptions and colours, installation of modern lighting, and upgrades to security systems. Excavation efforts resumed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and continued through 2021, paving the way for the site’s eventual opening.
The newly accessible tombs offer visitors a deeper glimpse into the artistic and religious life of ancient Thebes, reinforcing Luxor’s position as one of the world’s most significant open-air museums.
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