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Inside Ramesses IX's Tomb KV6: The Man Who Wasn't Born to be Pharaoh
Updated: Nov 18
Deep within the heart of Egypt's scorching desert lies the Valley of the Kings, a sprawling necropolis carved into the golden cliffs. Here, amongst the tombs of legendary Pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great, rests the final resting place of a lesser-known, but no less fascinating ruler - Ramesses IX.
Unlike his more celebrated predecessors, Ramesses IX (also known as Ramses) wasn't born to be Pharaoh. Thrust onto the throne through an unexpected turn of events, his 18-year reign was a complex dance between restoration and challenge. He strived to revive Egypt's former glory, yet faced a rising tide of economic woes and a power struggle with the High Priests of Amun.
In this post, we delve into the life of this intriguing Pharaoh, exploring his surprising rise to power, his elaborately decorated tomb, and his legacy. Prepare to be surprised by the captivating story of Ramesses IX, a Pharaoh whose reign offers a unique window into a pivotal period of ancient Egyptian history. Plus find out opening times, ticket prices, tips for visiting and more.
Table of Contents
● The history of the Valley of the Kings
● 10 interesting facts about Ramesses IX
● Tips for visiting the tomb of Ramesses IX & the Valley of the Kings
● Ramesses IX's Tomb opening times & best time to visit
● Getting tickets for Ramesses IX's Tomb
● How to get to Ramesses IX's Tomb
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Who was Ramesses IX?
Ramesses IX, also spelled Ramses or Rameses, wasn't born to be Pharaoh. Originally named Amon-her-khepshef Khaemwaset, he was likely the son of Ramesses III's son, Mentuherkhepeshef. This would make him a grandson of the great Ramesses III. While details of his early life are hazy, it seems he wasn't directly in line for the throne.
That all changed sometime around 1129 BC. He ascended the throne as Pharaoh Ramesses IX, most likely after the reign of Ramesses VIII.
⪢ A Reign of Restoration and Challenge
His reign, lasting around 18 years, was a period of both stability and challenge. He is credited with attempting to restore Egypt's former power and wealth, with texts mentioning travels to Nubia and Asia, possibly for trade or military campaigns.
While there's no record of major military victories, Ramesses IX did focus on building projects. He made significant contributions to the sun temple in Heliopolis and decorated the north wall of the Seventh Pylon at the Karnak temple complex. However, his reign wasn't without problems. The growing power of the High Priest of Amun at Thebes, Amenhotep, chipped away at the Pharaoh's central authority.
⪢ The Shadow of Tomb Robbers
One of the biggest challenges Ramesses IX faced was rampant tomb robbing. The economic situation wasn't great, with grain prices remaining high. This, coupled with the government's failure to pay workers on time, led to frustration and desperation. Grave robbers, mostly poor laborers, began plundering tombs in the Valley of the Kings, a trend that continued into later reigns.
Ramesses IX reign is famously known for the documented 'tomb robbery trials' that took place during Years 16 and 17 of his rule. These trials, recorded in several papyri including the Abbott Papyrus and the Papyrus Leopold II, provide a fascinating glimpse into the security challenges plaguing the Valley of the Kings at the time. The papyri detail accusations against officials, particularly Paser, the Mayor of West Thebes, who was responsible for safeguarding the necropolis.
The trials highlight the growing desperation caused by economic hardship. Graffiti found in the tombs themselves sometimes references the workers who built them, hinting at potential resentment and a motive for the robberies. While the outcome of the trials isn't entirely clear, they offer crucial information about the social and economic climate during Ramesses IX's reign.
⪢ Death and Legacy: A Pharaoh and His Tomb
Ramesses IX himself died in 1111 BC. His elaborately decorated tomb, KV 6, in the Valley of the Kings, is a testament to his reign. Ironically, despite efforts to secure his burial place, his mummy was eventually moved by later Pharaohs to a hidden cache, a reflection of the very tomb robbing he tried to combat during his rule.
⪢ Rediscovery and Final Resting Place
The Deir el-Bahri Cache, discovered in 1881, contained the mummies of numerous Pharaohs and royal figures, including Ramesses IX. His mummy was found inside one of the coffins belonging to Neskhons, wife of the High Priest Pinedjem II. In April 2021 his mummy was moved from the Egyptian Museum to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization along with those of 17 other kings and 4 queens in an event termed the Pharaohs' Golden Parade.
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The history of the Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of the Nile River near the ancient city of Thebes (modern-day Luxor), is one of Egypt's most iconic archaeological sites. It served as the burial place for many pharaohs and high-ranking nobles of the New Kingdom period (circa 1550–1070 BCE), a time of great prosperity and monumental construction in ancient Egypt.
The valley was chosen as a burial site due to its secluded and desolate location, hidden amidst rugged cliffs and mountains, which provided a natural defense against tomb robbers. The first pharaoh to be buried in the Valley of the Kings was Thutmose I, of the 18th dynasty, although earlier rulers were interred in tombs in nearby areas.
The tombs constructed in the Valley of the Kings are renowned for their elaborate architecture and richly decorated interiors, featuring intricate reliefs, hieroglyphs, and scenes depicting the journey of the deceased through the afterlife. The most famous tomb in the valley is that of Tutankhamun (KV62), discovered nearly intact by Howard Carter in 1922. Tutankhamun's tomb contained a wealth of treasures, including his iconic golden death mask, which captured the world's imagination and sparked renewed interest in ancient Egypt.
Over the centuries, the Valley of the Kings was the final resting place for numerous pharaohs, queens, and members of the royal family, including Seti I, Ramesses II, and Hatshepsut. Despite the valley's remote location and efforts to safeguard the tombs, many of them were eventually plundered by tomb robbers in antiquity.
Today, the Valley of the Kings remains an important archaeological site and a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its ancient wonders and glimpse into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian royalty. Ongoing excavations and research continue to shed new light on the history and significance of this remarkable necropolis, offering insights into the beliefs, customs, and achievements of one of the world's most enduring civilizations.
10 interesting facts about Ramesses IX
1. Unexpected Pharaoh: Ramesses IX wasn't originally heir apparent. Likely a grandson of Ramesses III, he wasn't directly in line for the throne but ascended around 1129 BC.
2. Restoration King: His reign aimed to bring back Egypt's former glory. He may have traveled to Nubia and Asia, possibly for trade or military campaigns.
3. Builder, Not Conqueror: Unlike some Pharaohs, Ramesses IX focused on building projects. He contributed to the sun temple in Heliopolis and decorated the Karnak temple complex.
4. Power Struggle: His reign saw a rise in the power of the High Priest of Amun, Amenhotep, challenging the Pharaoh's central authority.
5. Tomb Robber Troubles: Ramesses IX faced a wave of tomb robbing due to economic hardship. The desperation of laborers led to the plundering of tombs, a problem that plagued later Pharaohs as well.
6. The Enigmatic Corridor: His tomb, KV 6, features a unique corridor with scenes and texts combining elements from various Netherworld books, sparking curiosity among archaeologists.
7. Missing Sarcophagus: Despite an elaborate tomb, no sarcophagus has ever been found within KV 6, adding to the mysteries surrounding his burial.
8. Mummy on the Move: Ironically, Ramesses IX's mummy wasn't left undisturbed. Later Pharaohs likely moved it to a hidden cache, highlighting the very tomb robbing he tried to prevent.
9. Recycled Tomb Decoration: KV 6 shows signs of decoration reused from earlier tombs, suggesting cost-cutting measures or a time crunch during construction.
10. Living Textbooks: The tomb's detailed scenes and hieroglyphs offer valuable insights into Egyptian religious beliefs, rituals, and artistic styles during Ramesses IX's reign.
Tips for visiting the tomb of Ramesses IX & the Valley of the Kings
Here are some additional tips to know before visiting the Ramesses IX's tomb:
⪢ Dress Code: Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This is respectful of the local culture and protects you from the sun.
⪢ Sun Protection: The Egyptian sun can be intense, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
⪢ Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the hot summer months. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently.
⪢ Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential as there are steps and uneven terrain within the tomb complex.
⪢ Photography: While photography with mobile phones is generally allowed, professional photography equipment might require permits in Egypt. Check with the authorities beforehand. The use of drones are not permitted.
⪢ Guides: Consider hiring a local guide, or taking a tour, for a more in-depth understanding of the tomb's history and significance. They can offer insights that enrich your experience.
⪢ Respect the Site: Ramesses IX's Tomb is a sacred place for many Egyptians. Be mindful of your behavior and avoid climbing on structures, touching walls or causing any damage.
⪢ Bargaining: If you encounter vendors selling souvenirs or other items, be prepared to bargain for fair prices. This is a common practice in local markets.
⪢ Currency: Carry Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for entrance fees, purchases, and tipping. ATMs are available in Luxor city.
Ramesses IX's Tomb opening times & best time to visit
⪢ Opening times for the Ramesses IX's Tomb
The opening times of the Valley of the Kings depend on the season:
● Summer (May - October): from 6am to 6pm
● Winter (November - April): from 6am to 5pm
● Ramadan: from 6am to 5pm
⪢ Best time to visit Ramesses IX's Tomb
Summer in Egypt typically lasts from May to October. It's the hottest period, with average temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) and sometimes soaring as high as 40°C (104°F) in some areas. Winter falls between November and April. Winters are generally mild, with average minimum temperatures around 14°C (57°F), although nights can get cooler, especially in the desert regions.
It's important to note that Egypt has an arid desert climate, so even in winter, days are usually sunny and warm. However, the significant difference lies in the peak summer heat, which can be quite intense for some travelers.
● For Pleasant Weather: Shoulder Seasons (March-April & October-November) offer the most comfortable temperatures, with average highs ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This makes sightseeing and exploring much more enjoyable without the scorching summer heat.
● Avoiding Crowds: Regardless of the season, arriving at Ramesses IX's Tomb early in the morning allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
● Less Popular Months: Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or even the winter months (November-February) if you prefer minimal crowds. While the weather might be cooler, it's still generally pleasant for sightseeing.
Getting tickets for Ramesses IX's Tomb
You can buy tickets directly at the ticket windows located at the entrance of the Valley of the Kings. This is the most common option, but be aware that ticket windows close at 4:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. There is no direct website for booking online at this time.
⪢ Foreigners
● Adults: EGP 200 ($4.27 USD / $5.82 CAD / £3.37 GBP)
● Student: EGP 100 ($2.14 USD / $2.91 CAD / £1.69 GBP)
● Children under 12 years: FREE
You'll need to purchase a separate ticket for the optional electric car ride to the entrance of the Valley of the Kings. This costs around LE 40 (Egyptian Pounds) per person.
** Prices are correct at time of writing (May 2024).
One of the best ways to visit the Valley of the Kings is by taking a tour. We highly recommend using Klook, who have been operating tours for several years in Egypt using only highly trained, licenced operators who take care of all ticket entries, along with helping you to avoid the hawks. They will organise transport, give you great history and background and even organise lunch too. Check out our tour from Hurghada to Luxor and see what you think!
How to get to Ramesses IX's Tomb
Ramesses IX's Tomb is situated within the Valley of the Kings, also known as Biban el-Muluk. This location is on the west bank of the Nile river, opposite the city of Luxor.
⪢ Taxi / Uber
Taxis are readily available in Luxor and can be a convenient way to get directly to the Valley of the Kings. Agree on the fare beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings. Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem operate in Luxor and might offer a more cost-effective option compared to taxis.
⪢ Local Bus
Public buses are a budget-friendly option, but keep in mind that schedules and routes might be less frequent or direct compared to taxis or ride-sharing.
⪢ Day Trip Tours
Many travel agencies in Luxor offer organized day trips to the Valley of the Kings, which often include transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes even a guided tour. This can be a convenient option if you prefer a hassle-free experience.
⪢ Car Rental
Renting a car in Luxor gives you flexibility, but make sure you factor in parking fees and potential traffic conditions near the Valley of the Kings. Foreign drivers must have an International Driving Permit available on request.
Address: قسم الواحات الخارجة, The New Valley Governorate 1340420, Egypt
Website: egymonuments.gov.eg
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Our Ramesses IX's Tomb experience rating
We do not really think it is possible to go to a tomb in the Valley of the Kings and not enjoy it to be honest. We mean, what is not to like?! This tomb was actually pretty marvelous, with some wonderful decorative images and hieroglyphs that are remarkably well preserved.
Our only slight critique was that it was incredibly busy, and there were just far to many people allowed inside at the same time. It made it really difficult to take more time to appreciate the tomb. It is only a slight downside, and may just have been unique to our experience at the time, so do not let it put you off. We still highly recommend adding KV6 to your Valley of the Kings tour. You will not regret it!
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