Nefertari

Nefertari, the great royal wife of Pharaoh Ramses II, is one of the most famous queens of ancient Egypt. Her beauty and influential status granted her a central role in the political and religious life of her time.

Nefertari Merytmut, whose name means "the beautiful companion" or "for whom the sun shines," was the principal royal wife of Pharaoh Ramses II, living in the 13th century BCE. Beyond her role as chief consort, Nefertari held significant influence in the political and religious affairs of ancient Egypt, as evidenced by her temple at Abu Simbel, dedicated to the goddess Hathor, where her statues are depicted as large as those of Ramses II. Frequently shown alongside the pharaoh in temples and reliefs, Nefertari’s status and role in state rituals are well-documented. Her tomb in the Valley of the Queens is among the most elaborately decorated, with high-quality frescoes depicting her in various mythological scenes, ensuring her eternal presence. Ramses II’s dedication to Nefertari is notably reflected in these grand structures.

Egypt • |-1292/-1189| • Dynastie XIX

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