Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, is one of the most iconic figures of Ancient Egypt and is often regarded as the most powerful and influential pharaoh of his civilization. Reigning for an impressive 66 years, from 1279 to 1213 BC during the 19th Dynasty, he left a legacy of military conquests, monumental architecture, and diplomacy that resonates throughout history.
A Promising Beginning
Ramses was born into a royal family as the son of Pharaoh Seti I and Queen Tuya. From a young age, he was trained as a warrior and leader, accompanying his father on military campaigns and preparing to ascend the throne. At the age of 25, Ramses was crowned pharaoh, beginning a reign defined by territorial expansion and cultural innovation.
The Military Conqueror
Ramses II is renowned for his skill as a military strategist. One of the most notable battles of his career was the Battle of Kadesh, fought against the Hittites. Although the outcome was inconclusive, Ramses spared no effort in portraying himself as victorious, immortalizing his bravery in reliefs at the temples of Abu Simbel and Karnak.
Furthermore, he negotiated the world’s first recorded peace treaty, the Treaty of Kadesh, which brought stability to Egypt and strengthened its relations with the Hittites.
The Pharaoh Builder
Ramses II is often called “The Builder” due to the sheer number of monumental projects he commissioned during his reign. He constructed colossal temples such as Abu Simbel, dedicated to himself and his beloved wife, Nefertari. His giant statues and temples have become enduring symbols of Egyptian power and glory.
Other notable projects include:
- The Ramesseum: a vast mortuary temple in Thebes.
- Expansions to the temples of Luxor and Karnak.
- The temple dedicated to Nefertari at Abu Simbel, honoring her as an equal to the gods.
Personal Life and Family
Ramses II was known for his charisma and personal relationships. He had at least eight main wives and over 100 children. Among them, Nefertari, his favorite queen, stood out for her beauty and political influence.
His love for Nefertari is immortalized in inscriptions calling her “The one for whom the sun shines.” The temple at Abu Simbel dedicated to her is one of the most striking examples of his devotion.
The Legacy of Ramses II
Ramses II died at around 90 years old, an impressive age for the time. He was buried in the Valley of the Kings, and his mummy is one of the best-preserved, now displayed at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo.
His reign is remembered as a period of prosperity, military power, and unparalleled cultural achievements. He was so influential that many believe he is the pharaoh mentioned in the biblical story of Exodus, though this remains a subject of academic debate.
Fun Facts About Ramses II
- He is called “Ramses the Great” because of the impact of his achievements.
- His reign was one of the longest in Egypt’s history, lasting 66 years.
- Ramses II proclaimed himself a living god and associated himself with Amun-Ra, the principal deity of Egypt.
- In the 1970s, his mummy was taken to Paris for restoration and was issued an official passport listing him as “King (Deceased) of Egypt.”
Conclusion
Ramses II was not just a ruler; he was an icon of Ancient Egypt, whose influence transcended his time and has endured for millennia. His military triumphs, monumental works, and cultural legacy made him a symbol of power and glory that continues to inspire scholars, historians, and history enthusiasts to this day.
If you want to explore more about Ramses II and Ancient Egypt, stay tuned to our blog for more fascinating insights into this extraordinary civilization!