Temple of Ramesses II (Abydos)

Located just 300 meters northwest of the Temple of Seti I, this temple was built by Ramesses II early in his reign. While smaller and more ruined than his father's temple, it is renowned as the "Temple of Colors". The lower walls preserve some of the most vibrant and detailed polychrome reliefs in all of Egypt, showcasing the wealth and artistic refinement of the early 19th Dynasty. [1]

Quick facts Encyclopedic guide FAQ
Abydos (Near Seti I) Vibrant Colors Rare Materials

Quick facts

A fast snapshot of the Temple of Ramesses II—its purpose, luxury, and artistic value.

Location

About 300 meters northwest of the Temple of Seti I. It is often called the "Portal Temple" or the "Temple of Osiris". [1]

Dedicated to

Osiris, ruler of the underworld, but also heavily dedicated to the deified Ramesses II himself. [2]

Construction

Built early in the 19th Dynasty (c. 1279 BC). Unlike his later, rapidly built temples, this one was constructed with care and precision. [3]

Materials

A luxury project using fine limestone, red and black granite, sandstone, and alabaster. It was described as "The Mansion of Ramesses... beautiful in all stones." [1]

Highlights

The external reliefs of the Battle of Kadesh (very detailed) and the internal chapels with their brilliant reds, blues, and yellows. [2]

Opening hours

Included in the general Abydos ticket. Open daily from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM. Often empty, offering a private viewing experience.

Encyclopedic guide

Step into the "Jewel Box" of Abydos—a temple that, despite its ruin, retains the vivid soul of ancient Egypt.

The Jewel of Ramesses

While Seti I's temple is famous for its ethereal, pure white reliefs, the Temple of Ramesses II is famous for its luxury. Ramesses built it shortly after his accession to the throne. It is smaller than his father's temple but was designed to be a "House of Millions of Years" (Mortuary Temple) in the holy land of Osiris. Despite the roof being gone and the walls reduced to about 2-3 meters in height, the quality of what remains is breathtaking. [1]

Courtyard of Ramesses II Temple
The Second Courtyard with its Osiride pillars. Although the statues are headless, the detailed carving of the kilts and bodies remains sharp.

Key Features

  • Osiride Pillars: The courtyard features square pillars fronted by statues of Ramesses II in the guise of Osiris, symbolizing his resurrection. [2]
  • Rich Materials: The doorways were made of black and red granite, the sanctuary of alabaster, and the walls of fine limestone. [1]
  • King List: Like his father, Ramesses included a King List here (now in the British Museum), though it is less complete than Seti's. [3]

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to common questions about the Temple of Ramesses II at Abydos.

Abydos was the center of the Osiris cult. Ramesses wanted to associate himself with the god of the afterlife and his ancestors. Building near his father's temple created a family complex dedicated to the royal cult and Osiris. [1]
Yes. Ramesses II also had a King List carved here, but the top half was removed by the British consul Bankes in the 19th century and is now in the British Museum. Seti I's list (in the nearby temple) is much better preserved in situ. [3]
The upper parts of the limestone walls were quarried away in later times (likely for lime burning or building materials). However, the sand protected the lower courses, preserving the paint remarkably well. [2]

Sources & further reading

References supporting the historical data, architectural details, and dates presented in this guide.

  1. New York University (ISAW), The Abydos Temple of Ramesses II Project (Conservation and Documentation). View Project
  2. Wilkinson, Richard H. The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson, 2000.
  3. Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities (Egypt), Abydos. View
  4. Omm Sety & Hanny El Zeini. Abydos: Holy City of Ancient Egypt. (For a personal and detailed account of the temples).

Note on visiting: Opening hours and ticket prices are subject to change by the Ministry of Tourism. Please check official sources prior to your visit.

Last updated: February 17, 2026