First published in 1981, this book tells both the ancient story of the Valley of the Kings, and the modern one of its rediscovery, to which the main part of the book is dedicated. The detailed narrative covers the careers of the travellers, scholars and archaeologists involved, from colourful pioneers like the erstwhile circus strongman 'The Great' Belzoni, to Howard Carter and the most magnificent discovery of them all in Tutankhamun's tomb.