The tomb of Tutankhamun was discovered in the early 20th century by British archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. This discovery was significant because it was the first intact royal tomb found in the Valley of the Kings, filled with an extraordinary wealth of artifacts, including jewelry, furniture, and the famous gold mask of the young pharaoh. The tomb's preservation provided invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian culture, burial practices, and the material wealth of the era. It also sparked international interest in Egyptology and continues to be a focal point for studies of ancient Egypt.