EP 536: The Egyptian Indiana Jones Dr. Zahi Hawass

Dr. Zahi Hawass is the former Egyptian Minister of Antiquities and Director of Excavations at Giza, Saqqara, the Bahariya Oasis, and the Valley of the Kings. He is often referred to as “the real Indiana Jones, and some of his major finds include the Tombs of the Pyramid Builders at Giza, the Valley of the Golden Mummies, and multiple undiscovered pyramids. Now he’s leading the biggest archeological excavation ever attempted in Egypt, and he is documenting the adventure in a new 2-hour special for discovery+ called VALLEY OF THE KINGS: THE LOST TOMBS.

Dr. Hawass discusses the logistics of this massive dig in one of Egypt’s most unreachable areas, why he believes that the Western Valley of the Kings is rich in undiscovered tombs, and some of the tantalizing clues that may lead him to Egypt’s most famous queen Nefertiti. He shares the the most important factor for a successful dig, the role that modern forensic science is playing in identifying mummies, and why even the greatest archeologist still relies on luck and instinct every now and then. Plus Dr. Hawass opens up about his efforts to repatriate looted Egyptian artifacts, and he dispels myths about King Tut's death, a treasure under the Sphinx, and ancient aliens building the pyramids.

VALLEY OF THE KINGS: THE LOST TOMBS is now streaming only on discovery+. Keep up with Dr Hawass at www.drhawass.com.