The recent excavation led by the Egyptian-American Archaeological Mission has brought to light a remarkable discovery: the upper section of the colossal statue of Ramses II, a towering figure in ancient Egyptian history. The find, unearthed in Hermopolis Magna within Egypt's Minya Governorate, adds a new chapter to our understanding of this legendary pharaoh's reign.
Ramesses II, widely known as Ramesses the Great, held sway over Egypt during the illustrious 19th dynasty of the New Kingdom era, reigning for an impressive 66 years. Revered for his military prowess, diplomatic acumen, and architectural feats, Ramesses II left an indelible mark on Egyptian history. His legacy is immortalized in the grand temples of Abu Simbel and the imposing Ramesseum, testaments to his enduring influence.
Today, the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the retrieval of the upper portion of a monumental Ramses II statue, dating back over 3,200 years to the zenith of his rule. Dr. Basem Jihad and Dr. Yovona Trnka spearheaded the excavation efforts in the El-Ashmunein region, a site rich in archaeological significance.
The 3.8-meter limestone bust, discovered in Minya's southern province, complements the lower fragment unearthed in 1930, aligning seamlessly to reconstruct the awe-inspiring figure of the pharaoh. Adorned with a double-crowned headdress embellished with a regal cobra, the statue exudes the majesty and authority synonymous with Ramses II. Hieroglyphic inscriptions adorning the pillar's apex offer insights into the king's titles and the statue's genesis.
As restoration endeavors commence, anticipation mounts for the eventual reunification of the statue's disparate parts. Upon completion, the monumental ensemble will stand an impressive seven meters tall, a testament to Ramses II's enduring legacy and the meticulous efforts of modern archaeology.
Source: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt