Scientists investigating the possibility of a Nefertiti burial near the Tutankhamun tomb say new geophysical evidence points to previously unknown corridors and chambers hidden around the famous site in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings.
The findings revive a decade-old theory that Tutankhamun’s unusually small tomb, known as KV62, may be part of a larger royal burial complex that was sealed before the young pharaoh was laid to rest there.
The research team, led by archaeologist Mamdouh Eldamaty of Ain Shams University, combined ground-penetrating radar with a microgravity survey that measured tiny differences in underground density. The researchers said the results suggest a possible network extending about 25 to 30 meters (82 to 98 feet) north of Tutankhamun’s burial chamber.
George Ballard, a structural engineer and co-author of the study, said radar data indicate a roughly 2-meter-wide (6.6-foot-wide) corridor that may be packed with rubble. He said earlier surveys could have missed such a feature because they were searching mainly for a large empty space directly behind the decorated wall.
New data revive Nefertiti burial questions around Tutankhamun tomb
The microgravity survey produced more evidence that researchers say could indicate artificial structures. Several low-density areas have shapes and alignments that the team believes may represent rooms or passages.
One feature, identified as “anomaly 7,” includes a higher-density area within a lower-density zone. Ballard suggested it could represent a chamber containing objects, while stressing that the signal is near the limits of what the method can detect.
Christopher Gaffney, an archaeologist and ground-penetrating radar specialist at the University of Bradford, described the report as “fascinating” but said more information would be needed before firm conclusions could be reached.
Geophysicist Peter Styles of Keele University said the possibility of chambers appeared “plausible” from the gravity data but also wanted to see additional details.
Researchers seek direct look inside possible hidden complex
The search dates to 2015, when Egyptologist Nicholas Reeves proposed that lines visible beneath the walls of Tutankhamun’s burial chamber could mark sealed doorways. He suggested that KV62 may have originally extended farther north and possibly contained the burial of Nefertiti, one of ancient Egypt’s most prominent royal figures.
New evidence for hidden chambers beyond Tutankhamun’s tomb: Geophysical survey yields ‘tantalizing’ data that could point to Queen Nefertiti’s burial place but it’s too early to draw definitive conclusions via @JoMarchant https://t.co/cBs8vj8Uch pic.twitter.com/0Eho0JNU8I
— Ash Paul (@pash22) September 17, 2026
Later radar investigations produced conflicting results. Some surveys reported possible hidden spaces, while a major 2018 study found no evidence for large chambers immediately adjoining the tomb. The new team argues that rubble-filled passages could help explain why previous surveys reached different conclusions.
Researchers are now seeking permission from Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities to investigate physically. Their proposal calls for drilling small holes, about 7 to 8 centimeters (2.8 to 3.1 inches) wide, from the surface toward one of the strongest low-density anomalies. Remote-controlled miniature vehicles carrying 360-degree cameras could then be sent inside.
Ballard told Nature that work could begin in November if Egyptian authorities approve the plan. Until such an inspection takes place, the suspected rooms remain geophysical targets rather than confirmed archaeological chambers, and their possible connection to Nefertiti remains unproven.
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