Confirmed: Photography not allowed at the Valley of the Kings
- Image via Wikipedia
Dr. Zahi Hawass has issued a statement prohibiting the use of cameras at the Valley of the Kings. Two reasons are cited for this decree, as he himself calls it: the careless use of flash by visitors and the incapacity of the authorities to prevent guards from accepting bribes in exchange for allowing photography inside the tombs.
Today’s digital cameras have so many features that most users don’t take the time and effort to learn to operate, including deactivating automatic flash. Unable to curtail the accidental use of flash and the corruption of his own guards, Dr. Hawass has ruled against both responsible and irresponsible photography behavior by visitors.
The prohibition of cameras applies to the Egyptian Museum, too.
A little over a week ago, Dr. Hawass unveiled his two most recent publications at the British Museum’s Egyptian Sculpture Gallery. “A Secret Voyage: Love, Magic and Mysteries in the Realm of the Pharaohs” is the world-renowned archaeologist’s unique story of discovery and exploration in Ancient Egypt. “Inside The Egyptian Museum” explores the museum’s unrivalled collection of beautiful statues, the mummies, the shining gold and the treasures of the boy king, Tutankhamun.
Both books are beautifully illustrated with photographs by Sandro Vannini, widely regarded for his stunning and exquisitely detailed images of museum antiquities and the paintings in the tombs at the Theban necropolis.
A limited numbered edition of 700 numbered copies, signed by Dr. Zahi Hawass and Sandro Vannini sells for £2600.
