Ramesses IV

Ramesses IV was the fifth ruler of the Twentieth Dynasty, taking the throne after the death of his father, Ramesses III. He reigned from around 1155 BC to 1149 BC, with dates uncertain by about five years. Ruling from the northern capital of Pi-Ramesses, he governed an Egypt that was beginning to face administrative strain, yet he embarked on an ambitious monumental programme.

He is particularly remembered for organising extensive quarrying expeditions to the Wadi Hammamat in the Eastern Desert, mobilising thousands of men to secure high-quality stone. He also erected substantial stelae at Abydos, expressing prayers for a long and prosperous reign, though he died after only six years on the throne. His successor was his son, Ramesses V.

Scholars know this king through several major contemporary documents, including royal inscriptions, administrative papyri, and his tomb in the Valley of the Kings. His tomb, designated KV2, preserves vivid wall paintings and texts illustrating the Underworld. His well-preserved body was later recovered from a royal tomb cache.

Monuments

• KV2
• Wadi Hammamat expeditions
• Abydos stelae

Explore further

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