Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, reigned from 1279 BC to 1213 BC during the New Kingdom period, often regarded as the golden age of Ancient Egypt. His 66-year reign and extraordinary accomplishments secured his legacy as one of history’s most remarkable leaders.
Life and Reign
Longevity and Vitality: Born in 1303 BC, Ramses II lived to the impressive age of 90, a rarity in ancient times. He was said to have red hair, and at 190 cm (6’2″), he would have towered over many of his contemporaries.
Prolific Fatherhood: Ramses fathered 152 children, a testament to his significant dynastic impact.
Builder of Monuments: He was a prolific builder, commissioning iconic structures such as the Abu Simbel temples, the Ramesseum, and the Hypostyle Hall in Karnak. His extensive building projects reinforced his divine status and celebrated Egypt’s power and glory.
Military Prowess
Ramses II was a formidable military leader, famously leading Egypt in the Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites around 1274 BC. While the battle ended in a stalemate, Ramses’ propaganda transformed it into a victory, showcasing his might and solidifying his reputation. This event also resulted in one of the first recorded peace treaties in history.
Burial and Mummy
Valley of the Kings: Ramses II was initially interred in a tomb in the Valley of the Kings, near Thebes.
Royal Mummy Cache: To protect his remains from grave robbers, priests later moved his body to a secret royal cache, where it remained until its rediscovery in 1881.
Modern Display: His mummy has been carefully preserved and was displayed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Recently, it was relocated to the new Grand Egyptian Museum, a state-of-the-art facility near the Giza pyramids.
Legacy
Ramses II’s unparalleled reign left an indelible mark on history. He ruled during a time of prosperity and cultural achievement, overseeing a flourishing of art, architecture, and military strength. Today, he stands as a symbol of Ancient Egypt’s grandeur, remembered as the epitome of a powerful and visionary leader.
