For much of modern history, the image of Ramesses II has been defined by the colossal statues and the epic narratives of battles like Kadesh. Yet, beneath the monumental legacy of this so-called "Great Ancestor" lies a more intimate and scientifically revealing story. The death of Ramesses II marks the end of an era, not just for Egypt's political landscape but for the understanding of ancient physiology. Modern science has turned its attention from the temples to the tomb, using advanced technology to uncover the final chapter of the pharaoh's life.
The End of an Era: Context of Demise
Ramesses II did not die in battle or as a result of a sudden political coup. He passed away of natural causes, specifically related to the advanced age and the physical toll of a long reign. Living to what is estimated to be around 90 or 91 years old, his death signified the close of the 19th Dynasty. By the time his reign concluded, he had outlived many of his contemporaries, including his primary rivals, effectively ending the era of the great Ramesside kings.
Physical Decline and Health
Analysis of his mummy reveals that while he lived a long life, it was not without significant physical hardship. Ramesses II suffered from severe dental issues, including painful abscesses and severe wear on his teeth. Furthermore, his spine showed signs of arthritis, likely contributing to stiffness and pain in his later years. These conditions suggest that his final years were marked by considerable discomfort, a stark contrast to the vigorous image often portrayed in his youthful statues.
The Mummification Process
The ancient Egyptians placed immense importance on the preservation of the body for the afterlife. Following Ramesses II's death, his body underwent the intricate mummification process. This involved the removal of internal organs, which were stored in canopic jars, followed by dehydration with natron salts. The body was then anointed with oils and resins and wrapped in linen bandages. This ritual was intended to protect the physical form, allowing the Ka and Ba to recognize and reunite with it in the next world.
Modern Scientific Investigation
In the 1970s, the Egyptian government authorized a comprehensive scientific study of the royal mummies. Led by Dr. Grafton Elliot Smith, researchers examined Ramesses II's remains to determine his age and cause of death. They concluded that he was extremely elderly at the time of his passing. While the study confirmed his advanced age, it did not identify a single specific disease as the immediate culprit, reinforcing the idea that he simply succumbed to the cumulative effects of time.
Legacy of the Final Resting Place
Originally interred in the Valley of the Kings, specifically tomb KV7, Ramesses II's final resting place was subject to ancient tomb robberies. In a desperate attempt to protect the royal dead, priests of the 21st Dynasty later relocated his mummy to the Royal Cache at Deir el-Bahri. This move saved the pharaoh's remains from complete destruction, allowing it to survive into the modern era where it could finally reveal its secrets.
