Our Ancient Egypt

 Pharaoh Ramses II, who reigned for 67 years  during the 19th dynasty of the 12th century BC, was known as "Ramses the Great". He is known as one of Egypt's greatest warriors, but also as a peace-maker and for the monuments he left behind all over Egypt.

He was the first king in history to sign a peace treaty with his enemies, the Hittites, ending long years of wars and hostility. King Ramses reigned for 67 years (1292–1225 B.C.). Under him Egypt acquired unprecedented splendor. His empire extended from Syria to near the Fourth Cataract of the Nile.

 During his Reign Ramses built several impressive structures such as the Ramesseum, a temple built to himself, and two magnificent temples at Nubia, carved into the cliff side of Abu Simbel. He also completed the building of the great
hypostyle hall at Karnak, Thebes

Abu Simbul Temple

Pharaoh Ramses II, the son of Seti I and Queen Tuya, third king of the 19th Dynasty. One day to become known to all as Ramses the Great.
Ramses II became co-ruler beside his father when he was still very young traveling around with his father to learn his future place as pharaoh. In 1290 B.C, after his father’s death, Ramses took the throne and immediately went to work on his new position as Pharaoh.

His first act being to march 20,000 soldiers north into Syria to defend his empire against Hittite invaders. His empire stretched from South Syria to the fourth cataract of the Nile, which included what would today be known as the famous Battle of Kadesh. Unfortunately Ramses II tactics were not as well planned as he thought and he was forced to retreat.Unhindered by his loss Ramses went to work again this time building his empire up through architecture.