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The Tomb of Ramses IV, Luxor, is the third largest excavated among those
of the other Pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings. Seti I and Ramses II claim
the largest tombs but these places do not allow visitors. The mere size of the
tomb is awe inspiring. The massive white mound catches the eye from afar and
the dark entrance is alluring. Three corridors of the tomb lead to the burial
chamber and beautiful pictures and wall paintings on the interiors depict the
Egyptian Goddess Nut.
The vivid colors, floral and religious motifs and striking designs create a
spectacular impression on the minds of the visitor. The corridors are wide and
elaborately embellished with religious and mythological themes. The themes denote
the travel of the soul through the boats of the underworld to endure Osiris
judgment. They fortify the king with essentials before they enter Osiris' world
and also depict the journey from Osiris' to Ra's world where the king's soul
will live in eternal bliss. These themes have been brought out vividly in this
tomb.
The ceiling murals show winged serpents and the Goddess Nut bringing the essence
of the Book of the Day and Night to life. The blue and gold color scheme of
this painting captures the imagination of the spectators. Scenes from other
sacred texts such as the Book of the Dead, Book of the Caverns, and the Book
of the Gates have been allotted space on the walls of the Tomb of Ramses VI
in Luxor.
The burial chamber can be reached through an 83 meter long tunnel, burrowed
into the mountainside. The inner burial chamber has been broken into many times
to retrieve the treasures. The mummy of Ramses IV was actually found in the
tomb of Amenhotep II. It was probably left there for safekeeping. Do not miss
this opportunity to see the Tomb of Ramses IV in Luxor.
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