A tomb is a structure built to hold and honor the body of someone who has died. Unlike a simple grave dug in the ground, a tomb is typically a more elaborate construction: a stone chamber, a vault carved into rock, or an above-ground monument. The ancient Egyptians built enormous pyramid tombs for their pharaohs, filled with treasures and painted walls showing scenes from the ruler's life. The Taj Mahal in India is one of the world's most beautiful tombs, built by an emperor for his wife.

Tombs serve two purposes: they protect the remains of the deceased and create a lasting memorial. Some cultures, like the ancient Romans, built elaborate family tombs along roadsides so travelers would remember their ancestors. Other societies carved tombs directly into cliffsides or mountainsides.

You'll encounter tombs in history books, adventure stories, and museums. Archaeologists study ancient tombs to learn how past civilizations lived, what they believed about death, and what they valued enough to bury with their dead.