Carter Accused of Tomb Theft After New Evidence

Archaeologist Howard Carter, who discovered Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922, is now facing renewed accusations of theft. New evidence has emerged over a century after the celebrated find in the Valley of the Kings.

Unpublished letters, featured in a recent documentary, appear to confirm long-standing rumors. A note from Sir Alan Gardiner to Carter reveals that an amulet given to Gardiner by Carter was identified by Cairo's Egyptian Museum registrar, Rex Engelbach, as originating from Tutankhamun's tomb. Gardiner expressed regret for the awkward position, admitting he did not reveal Carter as the source.

These letters provide the first definitive written proof of items being removed from the tomb, allegedly by Carter himself. Egyptologist Sally El-Sabbahy noted that while Carter's discovery was monumental, there was a significant effort to avoid tarnishing the legacy of Tutankhamun by revealing unsavory details about Carter.

Carter's great-niece, Susan Allen, has denied these accusations. She maintains that Carter never stole anything, despite the lack of direct descendants to defend his legacy. Carter, who began his archaeological career at age 17, also discovered other significant tombs in Egypt before his famous Tutankhamun find.