Archaeologists Discover 3000 Year Old Tombs in Luxor

LONDON, February 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

A group of Italian archaeologists have made an extraordinary find in the southern Egyptian city of Luxor, unearthing several tombs that are thought to be around 3000 years old.

According to Egypt's Antiques Ministry, the tombs were discovered under the mortuary temple of the Pharaoh Amenhotep II, located on the Western Bank of the River Nile.

Amenhotep II ruled from 1427 BC to 1401 BC, and it appears that the temple was used for the interring of wealthy subjects, given the quality of the wooden sarcophagi and burial jars found inside the tombs - used to store vital organs and thought to have helped the deceased to pass smoothly into the afterlife.

This latest find adds yet another archaeological treasure to Egypt's already bursting portfolio, which includes the iconic Giza pyramids, the Sphinx and the Valley Temple of Chephren, among numerous other ancient monuments and artefacts.

With so many sites of immense historical interest, Egypt continues to be a top destination for history lovers around the globe, and UK visitors are no exception. And with a range of great value Egyptian breaks from Cosmos currently available to book online, visiting Egypt has never been easier or more affordable.

Cosmos is currently offering fantastic all-inclusive holiday packages to the following sought-after Egyptian destinations:

Luxor - Where you can visit Deir  el-Medina, the ancient village in which the artisans who created the Valley of the Kings lived.

Sharm El Sheikh - Located a short drive away from the Ras Mohammed National Park with its sandstone mountains and varied wildlife.

Nile Cruises - Taking passengers from Luxor to Tutankhamun's tomb to the marvellous architecture of Aswan (where you'll find the iconic Abu Simbel temples) and beyond.

Explore great prices for Egyptian breaks online at http://www.cosmos.co.uk/egypt/holidays. Holidaymakers can find all inclusive deals from Cosmos  that offer exceptional value for money, with prices starting from just £245 per person. For more information, visit cosmos.co.uk or contact Robert Foulkes at Robert.Foulkes@Monarch.co.uk, or on +44(0)1582-398122.