Known as one of the most prolific builders of the oldest civilization, ancient Egypt, Ramses II was one of the most celebrated and powerful rulers of the New Kingdom.
That’s why it makes sense that at least 350 statues were erected in his honor and some were even stolen. Now, one of those stolen masterpieces honoring the great ruler returned to Egyptian soil.
The 3,400-year-old head of one of King Ramses II’s statues has returned to Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Let’s break its story:
Where Was It Stolen From?
Standing tall at Abydos is the imposing temple of Ramses II, the location at which the statue was stolen 30 years ago. It was part of a group of statues depicting the ancient Egyptian ruler alongside other deities.
Where Did It Go From There?
Many years later, in 2013, the artifact was spotted when it was offered for sale in an exhibition in London. From there, it moved around to several countries until it reached Switzerland. That is when Egypt collaborated with Swiss authorities to establish its rightful ownership.
As criminal proceedings in Geneva, the statue was confiscated and handed over to the Egyptian embassy in Bern last July. Now, it’s finally home on Egyptian soil at Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
Seeing how many looted artifacts are making their way back to Egyptian soil, there is hope that even more will return, especially the most significant ones.
