TUT'S TOMB REOPENS TO TOURISTS AMID ONGOING SEARCH FOR NEFERTITI

THE tomb of Tutankhamun reopens to tourists today ... the anniversary of the 4 November 1922 discovery of his tomb ... amidst ongoing efforts to determine whether Nefertiti may be buried in a hidden chamber. 

The renovations included new lighting and a new ventilation system to prevent sand accumulation inside the tomb.

Also replaced were the wooden stairs which have brought millions of tourists down into the tomb over the decades.

Tourists arriving today may be disappointed to learn that Tutankhamun's mummy has been removed. 

Antiquities Minister Mamdouh Eldamaty said the mummy has been removed from the front chamber and has been relocated to a side chamber where its state of preservation is enhanced.

Meanwhile, experts are examining the tomb for clues that it may yield a hidden surprise occupant.

British archaeologist Nicholas Reeves claims NEFERTITI may be buried in hidden chambers behind secret doors in Tutankhamun's tomb. 

He suggests that the tomb may have been built for Nefertiti, but was hastily rededicated to Tut when he died unexpectedly.

Reeves and other archaeologists will undertake non-invasive radar examination of the tombs later this month to determine if its walls hide secret chambers.

Reeves bases his theory on digital photographs of the walls which suggest hidden doorways. He also says the fact that the famous golden mask of Tutankhamun has pierced ears for earrings indicates it was designed for a queen.

German conservator Christian Eckmann is examining the mask for evidence which might support Reeves' theory.

Eckmann was flown in from Germany to head a team of conservators at the Cairo Museum.

They are attempting to restore and repair the golden mask of Tutankhamun.

The repairs were necessary after museum staff accidentally broke off the mask's beard and re-attached it with epoxy glue in a BOTCHED REPAIR JOB a year ago.

It was on 4 November 1922 that Howard Carter discovered the tomb in the Valley of the Kings.