The Countess of Carnarvon | The Earl and the Pharaoh

Step into a world of ancient secrets, old money, new ambitions and the discovery of priceless treasure.

This revelatory biography explores the life of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, the man who financed one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time—the tomb of Tutankhamun. Between 1922 and 1923, Carnarvon and archaeologist Howard Carter uncovered thousands of extraordinary artifacts, from the iconic gold mask to a dagger made from meteorite. Their discovery transformed our understanding of Ancient Egypt, but it also catapulted Carnarvon into the global spotlight, fuelling rumours of the infamous “curse of the pharaohs.”

Bestselling author Fiona, the Countess of Carnarvon, draws on Highclere Castle’s never-before-explored archives to reveal the twists of fate, ambition, and tragedy that shaped Carnarvon’s life. From his restless travels to his deep passion for Egypt, this is a compelling portrait of a man whose legacy still fascinates today. Highclere Castle—best known as the setting for Downton Abbey—was his beloved home, but his heart lay in the sands of Egypt, where history and destiny converged.

Talk length: 1 hour including Q&A, followed by a book signing.