a new historical documentary series probing the secrets of Ancient Egypt. In the first episode, scientists attempt to unravel the mystery of a 3,000-yearold âscreamingâ mummy. The man was recovered from a tomb devoid of the usual trappings of Egyptian burial, with his features locked in a screaming expression. Who was this man and what does his fate reveal about the ancient Egyptian attitude to the afterlife?
7/8 - Ramses Tomb
The historical documentary series continues. This instalment charts the life of Rameses II, the longest-lived pharaoh who is widely regarded as Egyptâs greatest ruler. New discoveries have shed more light on the kingâs successful reign, while Egyptologists continue to debate the nature of his character and achievements.
Rameses II has often been called âRameses the Greatâ. Ascending to the throne in c.1279 BC, he ruled for 66 years â longer than any other pharaoh â and is credited with bringing stability and prosperity to the nation. When his mummy was excavated, Rameses was found to be a small man, crippled by arthritis in his old age. Yet in life he was clearly able to impose himself on his people. The sheer number of temples constructed by Rameses in his own honour have prompted some historians to label him an egomaniac â yet modern Egyptologists now regard him as a powerful and decisive leader.
