The sarcophagus of Pharaoh Ramses II can be seen in Paris until September – in a rare exhibition outside of Egypt.
The sarcophagus of Ramses II left Egypt for the first time in 1976. The journey went to France, where the mummy was treated against fungal infestation. Now the important ruler of Ancient Egypt can be seen in Paris as part of the traveling exhibition “Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaohs”.
While the exhibition has already been seen in San Francisco and Houston, Paris is the only stop for the sarcophagus in the world. France appreciates Egypt’s trust very much, said French Minister Rima Abdul Malak on Monday at the unveiling of the sarcophagus. The fact that he can be seen in Paris again after more than 40 years is also proof of the excellent relationship between the two countries. The wooden coffin was removed from a highly secured transport crate in the Grande Halle de la Villette, where it will be the highlight of the exhibition from April 7th.
Until September 6th, over 180 objects from his reign are on display, including royal masks, statues and jewellery. Ramses II is considered one of the most important pharaohs of ancient Egypt. He was born around 1303 BC. born 1213 BC and died 1213 BC. With a tenure of 66 years, he was one of the longest-serving heads of state in the world. He had numerous palaces and temples built, such as the temple complex at Abu Simbel.
In 1976, the sarcophagus was received like a head of state – with a red carpet and a lot of pomp. While the wooden coffin was on display at Paris’s Grand Palais, scientists treated the mummy with radiation against its progressive deterioration from bacteria and moisture. (dpa)