Head of Ramses II Unearthed in Giza!
It's an amazing find. I think it's Good News. I'm Not Sure
In an amazing recent discovery, archaeologists working in Giza, Egypt, have unearthed the long-lost top half of a massive statue depicting Ramses II, one of the most powerful pharaohs of ancient Egypt. (For those unfamiliar with ancient Egyptian rulers, Ramses II was particularly prolific.) This discovery completes the one from the 18th century when the bottom half was found.
"This is a monumental find," said Dr. Layla Hassan, lead archaeologist on the project. "Reuniting the two pieces after all this time sheds new light on Ramses II's reign and artistic achievements."
Monumental find. Do you think that’s a pun?
A Colossal Figure
Experts believe the complete statue will be over 30 feet tall, not 309 feet. This newly unearthed piece, made of black granite (not limestone), shows Ramses wearing a double crown and a headdress topped with a royal cobra. A text written in hieroglyphics on the upper back of the statue glorifies the king as "one of ancient Egypt's most powerful pharaohs."
A Legacy in Stone
Ancient Egypt had over 30 dynastic periods, and Ramses II's reign falls within the 19th. He ruled for over 60 years, leaving behind a legacy of impressive temples, monuments, and other architectural wonders.
A Grand Display Awaits
The team plans to reunite the two halves and put the complete statue on display in the upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum, currently under construction near the Giza pyramids.
So, I was actually a little torn about whether this discovery should count as “good news.” I mean it’s interesting and it’s news-worthy, but is it GOOD?
I’ve settled on yes, for the reasons outlined below, but feel free to comment if we (as a community) think this is a good thing.
The author’s reasoning for today’s post:
It’s Historical: This statue is a lost piece of the world’s cultural history.
An Achievement: This is a pretty significant accomplishment in the field of archaeology. It’s not the Lost Ark, but…
Enhanced Understanding: We now have a clearer view about Ramses II. His appearance and the context of how he fit in to his culture.
It’s History: The story could maybe spark interest in ancient Egypt and about history.