Thibaud Hue, edited by Loane Nader 09h22, 07 April 2023

From this Friday, the sarcophagus of Pharaoh Ramses II is exhibited at the Grande Halle de la Villette, in the 19th arrondissement of Paris. Unlike its receptacle, the mummy of Ramses II did not make the trip from Egypt, but nearly 180 pieces make up the exhibition. Who was this pharaoh, who remains one of the best known to the general public?

Ramses II is one of the most famous pharaohs, which is why the exhibition dedicated to him from this Friday is causing a sensation in recent days. Especially since its imposing sarcophagus is present, and promises to amaze passionate and curious of all kinds. If the mummy of the greatest pharaoh to have walked this Earth remained in Egypt, more than a hundred pieces are exposed. But who was really the character who has fascinated for more than 3,000 years?

Known as "The Great", Ramses II is the most admired of the pharaohs, firstly because his reign extended over time, 66 years precisely. It is therefore a record in the history of the country and an exceptional longevity for the time. And if he has marked the spirits so much, it is mainly because his passage on the throne marks the apogee of ancient Egypt. The ancient civilization of North Africa was renowned for its military strength, thanks to many battles won.

>> READ ALSO - Egypt: account of the pharaonic displacement of the sarcophagus of Ramses II in France

At least 11 wives and more than 110 children

Architecturally, the ruler was a sovereign builder. He erected many monuments now coveted by tourists, such as the renowned temple of Abu Simbel, whose statues reach nearly 20 meters high. Ramses II's personal life is also full of accomplishments, with at least 11 royal wives and more than 110 children.

Finally, the pharaoh died at the age of 90, before being placed in a wooden sarcophagus in the shape of an Osirian statue, itself placed at the bottom of a tomb dug into a hill in the Valley of the Kings in southern Egypt.