The Ramesseum, built in the XNUMXth century BC. AD, is a funerary temple dedicated to Ramses II, one of the most famous pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Located on the west bank of the Nile, in the region of Thebes, this monumental complex reflects the power and grandeur of this sovereign. The Ramesseum served not only as a place of worship to honor the memory of Ramses II, but also as an administrative and economic center.
The architecture of the Ramesseum
General plan and layout
The Ramesseum follows a classic Egyptian temple architectural plan, with a succession of sacred spaces leading to the main sanctuary. The complex includes an open-air courtyard, a columned portico, hypostyle halls and several chapels dedicated to various deities.
Colonnades and colossal statues
The Ramesseum is famous for its towering colonnades and colossal statues, including a seated statue of Ramses II, standing over 17 meters tall and weighing over 1 tons. These architectural elements testify to the technical and artistic mastery of the Egyptian builders of the time.
The bas-reliefs and the art of the Ramesseum
Scenes of war and religious ceremonies
The walls of the Ramesseum are adorned with finely carved bas-reliefs depicting scenes of war, religious ceremonies and funerary rituals. These works of art offer valuable insight into ancient Egyptian life and beliefs during the reign of Ramses II.
Artistic techniques and styles
The Ramesseum's bas-reliefs also illustrate the evolution of artistic techniques and styles of the time, with depictions that are more naturalistic and dynamic than those of earlier periods. The art of the Ramesseum thus bears witness to the innovation and creativity of Egyptian craftsmen.
The cultural and historical significance of the Ramesseum
The Ramesseum is an essential archaeological site to understand the importance of Ramses II in Egyptian history and to admire the artistic and technical prowess of the builders of the time. A visit to this mortuary temple immerses visitors in the heart of the time when Ramesses II reigned over Egypt, offering a fascinating insight into the life, art and architecture of this exceptional period.
Average temperatures and climate
Month | (° C) | (° F) | Weather | Climate |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | 15 | 59 | ☀️ | Sec |
February | 17 | 63 | ☀️ | Sec |
Mars | 22 | 72 | ☀️ | Sec |
April | 28 | 82 | ☀️ | Sec |
May | 33 | 91 | ☀️ | Sec |
June | 36 | 97 | ☀️ | Sec |
July | 37 | 99 | ☀️ | Sec |
August | 37 | 99 | ☀️ | Sec |
September | 34 | 93 | ☀️ | Sec |
October | 30 | 86 | ☀️ | Sec |
November | 24 | 75 | ☀️ | Sec |
December | 18 | 64 | ☀️ | Sec |
Schedules and info
Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. to 17:00 p.m. (may vary depending on the season)
Entrance fee: 100 EGP
Average price of a guide: 250 to 350 EGP
Other archaeological sites
Philae |
Edfu |