History of studies and research on Kitora Tumulus

203Researchers lay their eyes on the murals for the first time.

A temporary protective shed, for allowing investigation to proceed while maintaining the environment inside the stone chamber, was completed in July 2003. It became possible to look directly on the murals through the looting hole, which was barely large enough for a person to pass at a width of 40 cm at the top and 25 cm at the bottom, and 65 cm high.

In 2002 the pathway had been investigated in detail just up to the stone chamber. However, as any changes in temperature and humidity would greatly affect the murals within the chamber, in-depth discussions were held regarding how best to survey and preserve the murals while maintaining the interior environment. It was decided to erect the temporary protective shed as a result.

For surveying inside the stone chamber, an entry apparatus was attached to the looting hole, and a protective frame installed inside the chamber. All possible measures were taken to protect the murals and prevent them from being touched accidentally. In this survey, Distinctive artifacts were discovered, including fragments of a wooden coffin, metal sword fittings, human bone, and glass beads.