Published on March 24, 2026
A collection of 3,000-year-old artefacts at Battersea Power Station is shining a new light on Ramses II, one of ancient Egypt’s most ambitious and self-aggrandizing pharaohs. This exhibition presents a golden opportunity for Ramses, often overshadowed of Tutankhamun, to claim his rightful place in history.
The mummy of Ramses II, preserved exquisitely over three millennia, is a testament to the skill of ancient embalmers. His remarkably intact features—characterized by a proud, beaky nose—give a glimpse of the monarch who ruled for 66 years. Ramses died at the advanced age of 90 or 91, boasting an impressive legacy of having fathered more than 100 children and waged numerous campaigns to strengthen Egypt’s power. In a striking detail, his hand seems to extend forward, a haunting reminder of his enduring desire for control even beyond death.
Ramses II, often referred to as the ‘Donald Trump of ancient Egypt,’ showcases his grandiosity through monumental architecture, military exploits, and an obsession with legacy that resonates even today. The exhibition seeks to elevate his status military triumphs, architectural accolades, and his reign’s cultural richness, contrasting sharply with the allure surrounding Tutankhamun, whose unspoiled tomb captured global fascination after it was discovered in 1922.
As visitors to the exhibition wander through the impressive collection, they may find themselves reconsidering Ramses’s importance in the grand narrative of ancient Egypt. Where Tutankhamun represents the youthful glamour of pharaonic history, Ramses II embodies the complexity and grandeur of a civilization at its zenith. The showcase invites audiences to engage deeply with the legacy of a man who reshaped the landscape and identity of ancient Egypt, making it an essential experience for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
With the exhibition’s visuals, artifacts, and compelling storytelling, Ramses II is poised to step out of Tutankhamun’s shadow and reclaim his place as a pivotal figure in ancient history.