Tutankhamun's face revealed after 3,300 years in stunning ancient Egyptian breakthrough

Tutankhamun's real-life face has remained a mystery for more than 3,000 years - but advance 3D imaging technology has revealed exactly what the Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh would have looked like

Liam Gilliver Senior Reporter

12:26, 18 Jul 2024Updated 19:53, 19 Jul 2024

Tutankhamun died more than 3,000 years ago but still fascinates historians(Image: Getty Images)

Famed for his intricate gold mask, Tutankhamun has fascinated historians for thousands of years.

The elusive Pharaoh, who died when he was just 19-years-old, is perhaps the most intriguing figures to have ever ruled Ancient Egypt. His body laid mummified for more than three millennia before archaeologist Howard Carter lifted the lid of the boy King's sarcophagus in 1923.

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Surrounded by cursed legend and speculation, Tutankhamun's body was found amongst a slew of treasure - as was the custom with Ancient Egyptian burials - including a photo of the monarch with a strikingly chiseled face. He was portrayed as having high cheekbones, a stark jawline, full lips and arched brows.

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Researchers found King Tut had a severe overbite(Image: BBC)

The King would have also needed a cane to walk(Image: BBC)

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But 3D imaging technology has conducted a 'virtual autopsy' on the pharaoh's body - creating shocking images that reveal what he actually looked like. Using CT scans based on 1,700 high-resolution pictures, digital models and genetic analysis, researched have released a digital image of the Pharaoh without his iconic serpent mask.

"The shape of the face and skull are remarkably similar to a famous image of Tutankhamun as a child where he was shown as the sun god at dawn rising from a lotus blossom," said Zahi Hawass, secretary-general of the Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities. "For the first time, we will make these dead mummies come alive."

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It has quelled rumours that King Tut suffered facial injuries in a fatal chariot crash or assassination, as researchers believe he was born with misshapen features and an overbite. According to the Express, researched also found evidence of a malformed hips and a club foot - which means the teen would have likely needed a cane to walk.

Now, researchers suggest Tut broke his left thigh just days before his death. The puncture could have caused an infection which could have ended up killing him.

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