Discovery of the Original Sarcophagus of Ramesses II!

Archaeologists from Sorbonne University have recently made an astonishing discovery: the original sarcophagus of Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great. This finding sheds new light on one of ancient Egypt's most celebrated pharaohs and offers deeper insights into the complex history of his burial.

Ramesses II was the third pharaoh of the 19th Dynasty during Egypt's New Kingdom period. His reign, beginning in 1279 BC and lasting until his death in 1212 or 1213 BC at the age of around 90, is often considered the pinnacle of ancient Egypt's grandeur. He is renowned for his military exploits and the construction of numerous monumental structures that stand as testaments to his power and ambition.

After his death, Ramesses II was buried in a tomb complex known as KV7 in the Valley of the Kings. This site is situated near the tombs of his sons (KV5) and his successor, Merenptah (KV8). However, during the 20th Dynasty under the reign of Ramesses III, the tomb was plundered by grave robbers. In response to this desecration, priests transferred Ramesses II's remains first to the tomb of Queen Ahmose Inhapy and later to the tomb of the high priest Pinedjem II.

Photo Credit: Dennis Jarvis

Ultimately, his remains were relocated to a royal cache (designated TT320) next to Deir el-Bahari in the Theban Necropolis, near Luxor. This tomb became the final resting place for over 50 members of the New Kingdom's royal family. The mummy of Ramesses II was discovered there in 1881, housed in a simple wooden coffin, which was likely a temporary solution awaiting a more secure and dignified burial.

A new study published in the Revue d’Égyptologie reveals that a sarcophagus fragment found in 2009 at a Coptic monastery in Abydos is part of the original sarcophagus of Ramesses II. This fragment, recently re-examined by Egyptologist Frédéric Payraudeau from Sorbonne University, bears decorations and inscriptions that clearly indicate it was initially crafted for Ramesses II. It appears that this sarcophagus was later repurposed by a high priest of the 21st Dynasty, Menkheperre, around 1000 BC, who moved it to Abydos following the looting of KV7.

Photo Credit: Kevin Cahail

This remarkable discovery not only enriches our understanding of Ramesses II's posthumous journey but also highlights the intricate measures taken by ancient Egyptians to protect and honor their pharaohs even in the face of adversity.