Partial statue of Ramesses the Great found in ancient Egyptian capital city along Nile

The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has announced a significant archaeological find: a partial statue of the renowned Pharaoh Ramesses II, often associated with the biblical Exodus narrative. Unearthed at the Tel Faraon site near El Husseiniya along the Nile Delta, the statue, despite being incomplete, offers valuable insights into ancient Egyptian history and artistry.

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display artistic and royal features suggesting it was once part of a Triad, similar to those uncovered at a number of archaeological sites across Sharqia Governorate.

Initial assessments indicate the statue weighs approximately 5 to 6 tons and stands at 2.20 meters tall. While its legs and base are missing, the remaining features are described as possessing artistic and royal qualities, suggesting it may have once been part of a larger Triad sculpture. This discovery is particularly important as Tel Faraon, also known as Nebeshe, served as the ancient capital of Lower Egypt's 19th Nome and housed a temple dedicated to the goddess Wadjet.

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sheds light on aspects of religious and royal activity in the eastern Delta region.

This find is expected to illuminate aspects of religious and royal life in the eastern Delta during the New Kingdom period. Archaeologists believe the statue may have been transported from the former capital, Pi-Ramesses, to Tel Faraon for reuse in a temple, a practice that underscores the site's historical and religious significance across various eras. The statue has been moved to a museum for further preservation and study, promising deeper understanding of this dynamic period in Egyptian history.

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transferring and repurposing royal statues during the New Kingdom period.