Archaeologists have unearthed a significant sarcophagus fragment that belonged to Pharaoh Ramesses II during excavations beneath a religious center in Abydos, Egypt. The granite artifact, discovered in 2009, was initially identified as holding the remains of a 21st dynasty high priest named Menkheperre. However, further examination has revealed a connection to the illustrious Ramesses II through an overlooked cartouche. Ramesses II, the third ruler of the 19th dynasty, reigned from 1279 to 1213 B.C. and is renowned for his military conquests and ambitious building projects. Prior to being placed in the granite sarcophagus, Ramesses II was initially buried in a gold coffin and later transferred to an alabaster sarcophagus. The granite sarcophagus was subsequently moved to Abydos by Menkheperre for his own burial. This discovery underscores the practice of reusing funerary objects by subsequent rulers in ancient Egypt, as the Valley of the Kings faced constant looting and reuse of its treasures.
Sarcophagus Fragment Connects to Legendary Pharaoh, Ramesses II
