Pacific Lutheran University Valley of the Kings Project: WINDING DOWN AND GOING HOME

Working in Egypt is always full of surprises. As is not uncommon, we came to do certain things and ended up accomplishing other things we didn't expect. For example, we originally hoped to investigate tombs KV 50, 51 and 52 but due to a couple of unanticipated situations, we instead concentrated our efforts on KV 48 and 60, two remarkable tombs very worthy of attention. We accomplished much but at some point, we needed to call a finish to this year's field season, close up operations, and head on home. The work doesn't end there, though, as there is data to analyze and prepare for publication.

The amazing British Museum.

As is our typical scenario, we like to spend a couple of days in London on the way home. It's a great place to relax and there's a lot to do. (Team member Paul Buck took a trip out to Stonehenge and also ran a half-marathon! Denis Whitfill visited the Royal Observatory in Greenwich). London is also a major center for Egyptology outside of Egypt itself. The British Museum is home to one of the world's great collections of Egyptian artifacts included the famed Rosetta Stone which assisted in the decipherment of the hieroglyphs. The Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology houses another great collection. The Egypt Exploration Society is also based in London and has supported excavations and research since 1882.

While in London, we enjoy staying at The Celtic Hotel, a very pleasant B & B in easy walking distance of all of the above institutions. And we often meet friends and colleagues at our "office away from home," The Museum Tavern, where one can find a nice selection of food and drinks.

I hope you've enjoyed reading this "BLOG." We'll probably be adding to it on occasion when we have additional items of interest regarding our work in the Valley of the Kings. And for those who would like further information, I recommend the following books: