40 Facts About Ramses

Ramses II: The Great Pharaoh

Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, was one of ancient Egypt's most powerful and influential pharaohs. His reign marked a period of prosperity, monumental construction, and military prowess.

1. 01Ramses II ruled Egypt for 66 years, from 1279 to 1213 BCE, making his reign one of the longest in ancient Egyptian history.
2. 02He was the third pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, succeeding his father, Seti I.
3. 03Ramses II is often regarded as Egypt's most celebrated and powerful pharaoh, earning the title "Ramses the Great."
4. 04His reign is noted for the extensive building projects, including the construction of temples, statues, and monuments.
5. 05The most famous of these constructions is the Abu Simbel temples, carved out of a mountainside in Nubia.
6. 06Ramses II's full name was Usermaatre Setepenre, which means "Keeper of Harmony and Balance, Strong in Right, Elect of Ra."
7. 07He led several military expeditions, most notably against the Hittites, Libyans, and Nubians.
8. 08The Battle of Kadesh, fought against the Hittites, is one of the most famous battles of Ramses II's reign.
9. 09Although the Battle of Kadesh ended in a stalemate, it led to the first known peace treaty in history between the Egyptians and Hittites.
10. 10Ramses II had over 200 wives and concubines, fathering more than 100 children.

Monumental Achievements

Ramses II's legacy is immortalized through his monumental achievements in architecture and art. His constructions still stand as a testament to his grandeur.

11. 11The Ramesseum, a massive mortuary temple complex, was built in his honor on the west bank of the Nile near Thebes.
12. 12He completed the construction of the Hypostyle Hall at Karnak, which was started by his father, Seti I.
13. 13The colossal statues of Ramses II at the entrance of the Luxor Temple are among the most iconic images of ancient Egypt.
14. 14He also ordered the construction of the Pi-Ramesses, a new capital city in the Nile Delta.
15. 15The temples at Abu Simbel were designed to align with the sun, illuminating the inner sanctum twice a year.
16. 16Ramses II's mummy is one of the best-preserved mummies ever discovered, now housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
17. 17His tomb, KV7, is located in the Valley of the Kings, although it was heavily damaged by ancient floods.
18. 18The temple of Hathor and Nefertari, also at Abu Simbel, was dedicated to his favorite wife, Queen Nefertari.
19. 19Ramses II's statues often depicted him as a god, emphasizing his divine status.
20. 20The Great Temple at Abu Simbel features four colossal statues of Ramses II, each over 20 meters tall.

Family and Personal Life

Ramses II's personal life was as grand as his public achievements. His family played a significant role in his reign and legacy.

21. 21Queen Nefertari was Ramses II's first and most beloved wife, often depicted alongside him in statues and reliefs.
22. 22He built the Temple of Hathor in honor of Nefertari, one of the few temples dedicated to a queen.
23. 23Ramses II's sons held important positions in his administration and military, ensuring his legacy continued.
24. 24His eldest son, Amun-her-khepeshef, was a prominent military leader.
25. 25Khaemwaset, another son, was known for his work in restoring older monuments and temples.
26. 26Ramses II's daughters also held significant roles, with many becoming priestesses and influential figures.
27. 27His family was often depicted in the reliefs and statues of his temples, showcasing their importance.
28. 28Ramses II's mother, Tuya, was highly revered and had a prominent role in his early life.
29. 29His father, Seti I, was a respected pharaoh who laid the groundwork for Ramses II's successful reign.
30. 30Ramses II's numerous marriages were often politically motivated, strengthening alliances with other regions.

Legacy and Influence

Ramses II's influence extended far beyond his lifetime, shaping the course of Egyptian history and leaving an indelible mark on the world.

31. 31His reign is often considered the pinnacle of ancient Egyptian civilization, marked by prosperity and stability.
32. 32Ramses II's military campaigns expanded Egypt's territory and secured its borders.
33. 33The peace treaty with the Hittites set a precedent for diplomatic relations in the ancient world.
34. 34His extensive building projects provided employment and stimulated the economy.
35. 35Ramses II's image and achievements were celebrated in literature, art, and folklore for centuries.
36. 36He was deified after his death, worshipped as a god in some regions of Egypt.
37. 37The temples and monuments built during his reign continue to attract tourists and scholars from around the world.
38. 38Ramses II's legacy influenced subsequent pharaohs, who sought to emulate his achievements.
39. 39His reign is often studied as a model of effective leadership and governance in ancient times.
40. 40Ramses II's impact on history is evident in the enduring fascination with his life and accomplishments.

Ramses II's Legacy Lives On

Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, left an indelible mark on history. His reign, lasting over six decades, saw monumental achievements in architecture, military conquests, and cultural advancements. The temples at Abu Simbel and the Ramesseum stand as testaments to his architectural prowess. His military campaigns, especially the Battle of Kadesh, showcased his strategic genius and cemented his reputation as a warrior king.

Beyond his tangible accomplishments, Ramses II's legacy endures through the stories and legends that have been passed down through generations. His efforts to portray himself as a god-like figure ensured his place in the annals of history. Today, his mummy, housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, continues to fascinate scholars and tourists alike. Ramses II's life and achievements remind us of the enduring power of legacy and the impact one individual can have on the course of history.