Ramses II, known as Ramses the Great, was the third pharaoh of the 19th dynasty of Ancient Egypt. He reigned for an astonishing 66 years, from 1279 to 1213 BC. Ramses is renowned for his extensive military campaigns, ambitious building projects, and profound influence on Egyptian history.
Born around 1303 BC, Ramses II was the son of Seti I and Queen Tuya. At a young age, he served as co-regent with his father. Upon Seti I's death in 1279 BC, Ramses II became pharaoh at the age of 25.
Ramses II is known for his numerous military campaigns, which expanded the boundaries of Ancient Egypt. He fought against the Hittites, Nubians, and Libyans, extending Egypt's empire from Syria to Sudan. In 1274 BC, he led an iconic battle against the Hittites at Kadesh. While the battle ended in a stalemate, Ramses claimed victory and portrayed it as a great triumph in his inscriptions.
Ramses II was an ambitious builder, leaving behind an impressive legacy of temples, palaces, and monuments. He enlarged the temple complex at Karnak, added to the Temple of Luxor, and built the colossal Abu Simbel temples in Nubia. Ramses also constructed the Ramesseum, a vast mortuary temple on the west bank of the Nile River.
Ramses II maintained a centralized and authoritarian rule, strengthening the power of the pharaoh. He introduced strict administrative reforms to ensure efficient governance. Ramses also promoted the worship of Amun-Re, the sun god, and built numerous temples in his honor.
Ramses II is widely regarded as one of the greatest pharaohs in Egyptian history. His military conquests, building projects, and political reforms shaped Ancient Egypt for centuries. His colossal statues and inscriptions have endured as testaments to his power and grandeur, making him an iconic figure in Egyptian archaeology and history.
Ramses II famously fought the Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites in 1274 BC. While the battle ended in a stalemate, Ramses claimed a decisive victory. This account is depicted in inscriptions and reliefs throughout Egypt, portraying Ramses II as a heroic warrior. However, recent historical analysis suggests that the Hittites may have actually gained the upper hand in the battle.
In the 1960s, the Abu Simbel temples were threatened by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. UNESCO launched a massive international rescue operation to save the temples from flooding. Using a complex engineering feat, the entire temple complex was relocated to a higher elevation.
One of the most persistent myths in archaeology revolves around the curse of Ramses' tomb. Legend has it that anyone who disturbs the tomb of Ramses II will be cursed with bad luck or death. This myth gained traction after several members of Lord Carnarvon's expedition died shortly after opening Tutankhamun's tomb. However, no scientific evidence supports the existence of any curse.
Reign | Duration |
---|---|
1279-1213 BC | 66 years |
Campaign | Opponent | Outcome |
---|---|---|
Battle of Kadesh | Hittites | Stalemate, claimed victory |
Nubian Campaign | Nubians | Conquest |
Libyan Campaign | Libyans | Expansion of territory |
Temple/Palace | Location |
---|---|
Karnak Temple Complex | Thebes |
Luxor Temple | Thebes |
Abu Simbel Temples | Nubia |
Ramesseum | Thebes |
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How long did Ramses II reign?
- 66 years (1279-1213 BC)
What was the outcome of the Battle of Kadesh?
- Stalemate, with both sides claiming victory
Which gods did Ramses II promote?
- Amun-Re, the sun god
What is the famous myth associated with Ramses' tomb?
- Curse of Ramses' tomb
Who excavated the tomb of Tutankhamun?
- Lord Carnarvon
What organization led the rescue operation to save the Abu Simbel temples?
- UNESCO
How tall was the Great Sphinx at Giza originally?
- Approximately 20 meters (65 feet)
What percentage of Egyptian archaeology remains unexcavated?
- Approximately 95%
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