Amasis II

Amasis II, also known as Ahmose II, came to power in 570 BC after deposing King Apries during a military revolt, ruling until 526 BC, with dates uncertain by about a year. Although he began his reign as a usurper, Amasis proved to be an exceptionally capable and pragmatic ruler. Over his 44-year reign, Egypt enjoyed extensive peace, financial wealth, and a flourishing agricultural base.

Amasis fostered close ties with the Greek world, granting special commercial privileges to the trading city of Naucratis in the Delta and dedicating gifts to prominent foreign sanctuaries. At home, he was an active builder who erected monuments at the temple of Neith in Sais, added to shrines at Elephantine, and constructed a temple at Siwa Oasis. He also reorganised taxation and domestic administration.

Toward the end of his life, Amasis faced the rising threat of the Achaemenid Persian Empire. He died shortly before the Persian invasion. Egyptologists know him through numerous temple blocks, donation stelae, and extensive accounts preserved by classical historians.

Monuments

• Temple of Neith at Sais
• Siwa Oasis temple
• Elephantine additions

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Try the name on the Cartouche Desk, or see where the reign falls on the timeline.