BBC Documentary Films

The reign of Ramesses II – also known as Ramesses the Great – marked the high point of the New Kingdom and the high point of Egyptian culture. But like any empire, it was all downhill as the New Kingdom gradually fell into ruin.


Tall and strong, Ramesses was a distinctive and powerful figure. He was lucky to win the Battle of Kadesh, but wanted his victory to seem more impressive. He carved stories on temple walls that told his people how, single-handed, he had defeated the enemy. Throughout his reign he would use propaganda to build up his reputation.