The Pharaoh's Passport

Ramesses II’s reign was also distinguished by his military prowess. He is perhaps best known for the Battle of Kadesh, fought against the Hittites in 1274 BC. This battle, one of the largest chariot engagements in history, initially appeared to be a setback for Ramesses due to a strategic ambush by the Hittites. However, through sheer personal bravery and tactical acumen, Ramesses turned the tide, rallying his troops and achieving a stalemate that he later portrayed as a great victory. This encounter solidified his reputation as a formidable warrior king and was immortalized in detailed bas-reliefs at his temples in Abu Simbel and Karnak.

The construction of the temples at Abu Simbel is another testament to Ramesses II’s architectural genius and his desire to project power and divine favor. These twin temples, carved into the mountainside, feature colossal statues of the pharaoh and his queen Nefertari, demonstrating the grandeur and artistic sophistication of his reign. The temples were not only religious centers but also political statements, asserting Egypt’s dominance over Nubia and serving as a reminder of Ramesses’ divine rule.

Ramesses II’s domestic policies were equally impactful. He initiated numerous building projects across Egypt, from the Delta to Nubia, including the completion of his father’s projects and the construction of new temples, palaces, and cities. His administrative reforms and efforts to consolidate central authority strengthened the stability of the Egyptian state. Ramesses’ reign also saw a flourishing of arts and culture, with advancements in literature, sculpture, and architecture reflecting a period of prosperity and relative peace, following the conclusion of his military campaigns.

In addition to his political and military achievements, Ramesses II’s personal life was marked by his large family. He fathered over a hundred children with his many wives, including the notable Queen Nefertari, whose tomb in the Valley of the Queens remains one of the most beautifully decorated burial sites from ancient Egypt. His progeny ensured the continuity of his dynasty and his enduring influence on subsequent generations.

Ramesses II’s death at the age of around 90 was followed by his burial in the Valley of the Kings, and his mummy, now housed in the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, continues to be a source of fascination for historians and archaeologists. His reign, one of the longest in Egyptian history, left a legacy of monumental achievements that not only defined his era but also shaped the cultural and historical trajectory of ancient Egypt. Ramesses the Great remains a symbol of the might and majesty of the pharaonic tradition, his life and accomplishments serving as a testament to the enduring power and splendor of ancient Egypt.