Tut at 100: Get to Know the “Boy King” and His Tomb

One hundred years ago this month, the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings opened a window on ancient Egypt and its fascinating “boy king.” To mark the centennial anniversary of this historic moment, National Geographic has prepared a variety of engaging opportunities to teach and learn about Tut and his world.

Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience

Rewind the clock 3,000 years to one of the largest and oldest civilizations in recorded history: ancient Egypt. “Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience,” a new exhibition developed in association with the National Geographic Society, offers educators, learners, and other museumgoers the chance to immerse themselves in the world of Tut. Follow along as he assumes power then, after dying young, embarks on his biggest quest of all: for immortality. Plan a field trip to see the exhibition in a city near you.

Beyond King Tut: An Educational Companion

If experiencing the exhibition in person isn’t a possibility, fear not: the digital Beyond King Tut educational companion will transport you to Tut’s kingdom, wherever you may be in the world. Available in English, Spanish, and Arabic, this resource is designed to be accessible and engaging, with dozens of photos, maps, and sidebars. It also includes thought-provoking questions to ask yourself and your learners, such as “How are the beliefs of the afterlife held by the ancient Egyptians different from your own beliefs? How are they the same?”

Beyond King Tut Virtual Educator Event

This recorded session gives educators a virtual preview of “Beyond King Tut.” Viewers will learn more about the exhibition from Creative Producer Mark Lach and hear from special guests Ghihan Elhadidy and Dr. Fatma Ismail, who provide valuable insights on the cultural connection that the exhibition creates by introducing world audiences to ancient Egypt.

Explorer Classroom (With Nora Shawki and Fred Hiebert)

Tomorrow at 11 a.m. ET, join National Geographic Archaeologist-in-Residence Fred Hiebert for an Explorer Classroom event live from Alexandria, Egypt. Fred will share how he uncovers treasures from ancient Egypt, and registered participants will have the opportunity to ask him questions. Fred’s event is intended for ages 9-14 and grades 3-8. Then, on Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. ET, join National Geographic Explorer and Egyptian archaeologist Nora Shawki to learn about her research into the lives and culture of non-elite ancient Egyptians and how everyone can get involved in archaeology. Nora’s event is intended for ages 4-8 and grades K-2.

Resource Library: Ancient Egypt

Explore more than 20 educational resources on ancient Egypt—from infographics and interactives to videos and articles—in this curated collection in our Resource Library. These resources allow you and your learners to go into greater depth on particular topics, such as the sun god Ra, the Nile River, or the work of Explorers Sarah Parcak or Corey Jaskolski. While in the Resource Library, try searching for any other topics that may be of interest.


Featured image by Rebecca Hale, National Geographic. National Geographic Museum, 2022. “Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience” celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the legendary discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. Visitors will experience cinematic storytelling and soaring projection imagery as they venture into the boy king’s world like never before. Meet the gods of the underworld, study the ancient practice of mummification, and learn more about the Explorers unmasking the mysteries of Tut’s life.

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