The Discovery of King Tut recreates the awe and marvel of the moment of discovery—enter an overwhelming treasure trove, discover new worlds and new wonders, learn about and study the treasures—it's an experience for all the senses. Using state-of-the-art technology, the exhibition recreates a piece of the fascinating, bygone exotic empire on the Nile.
Overview
The tomb and treasures of Tutankhamun have been faithfully reconstructed to scale, giving visitors a realistic impression of the overwhelming opulence of the offerings meant to serve the king on his magical journey into the Underworld. More than 1,000 replicas of the most important finds have been reconstructed by master Egyptian craftsmen using traditional techniques, and can be admired at the exhibition.
Originals vs. Reproductions
State-of-the-art multimedia technology provides exhibit goers information and a vivid illustration of the culture and spiritual world of the ancient Egyptians—their cult of the dead, deities, dynasties, and mysterious hieroglyphic script. Of course, the focus of the exhibition lies on Tutankhamun himself. As part of the experience, every visitor will enjoy a fully-immersive audio tour, with both child and adult versions available.
Return of the King
Tutankhamun was one of the most enigmatic figures in Egyptian history. He was descended from the 18th dynasty, which established the New Kingdom and led it during a period in which the arts flourished.
As the son of the god-king Akhenaten, Tutankhamun became pharaoh at the tender age of eight, but died under mysterious circumstances at about the age of 19.
His successors erased his name from all monuments, meaning he was not recorded on any list of kings and faded into obscurity. Unknown and forgotten, he lay for almost three and a half millennia in the Valley of Kings until British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered his tomb in 1922.
About Howard CarterThe burial and treasure chambers shown at this exhibition cannot be seen in this form anywhere else in the world – not even in Egypt, because Tutankhamun’s original tomb in the Valley of Kings has now been almost completely emptied.
Tutankhamun’s treasures are now cordoned off behind glass in the display cabinets of the Egyptian National Museum in Cairo. The impression of space made by the tomb in its original state can only be experienced at this exhibition: virtual archaeology makes accessible worlds that no longer exist.
Adult: $27
Senior (62+): $24
Military/College Student (with ID): $21
Youth (7-17): $17
Child (3-6): $11
Adult: $15
Senior (62+): $13
Military/College Student (with ID): $11
Youth (7-17): $10
Child (3-6): $8
To purchase tickets and reserve an entry time on the same day of your visit: Please call Customer Service directly at 619-255-0195 to make your purchase.
If you have a Balboa Park Explorer, San Diego GoCard, or other passes for general admission to theNAT, you can purchase an upgrade ticket to see The Discovery of King Tut at discounted rates. Purchase tickets at the Admissions Desk on the day of your visit.
Adult: $18 | Senior (62+): $16 | Military/College Student (with ID): $15 | Youth (7-17): $12 | Child (3-6): $9
Discount tickets are available for groups of 10 or more. The Discovery of King Tut is perfect for adult, youth, senior, and tour groups. Advanced reservations are required.
Teachers: Planning your next school field trip? Discount school group rates are available with advanced reservations. Field trip reservations fill up quickly. Act now!
During evening hours, The Discovery of King Tut is available for private events. Corporations, organizations, and social groups can enjoy a buy-out of this exhibition for an unforgettable and unique Museum experience. Contact events@sdnhm.org.
Open daily 10 AM to 5 PM
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Hours subject to change.Please plan on spending at least 90 minutes exploring this exhibition.
