Seti II

Seti II was a pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty during the New Kingdom. He was the son of Merneptah and Queen Isetnofret II, inheriting the throne following his father's death. His reign lasted about 1203 to 1197 BC, with dates uncertain by about five years. His early years were disrupted by the rival claimant Amenmesse, who held power in Thebes and southern Egypt before Seti II restored unified control across the realm from Pi-Ramesses.

Once his authority was re-established, Seti II initiated architectural works in Upper Egypt, including an elegant three-chambered sandstone bark station in the forecourt of the Karnak Temple complex. His consorts included Takhat and Queen Twosret. Following his six-year reign, the throne passed to the young king Siptah, overseen by a regency council.

Scholars know Seti II from royal inscriptions, administrative papyri, and building reliefs at Karnak. His decorated burial place, KV15, sits in the Valley of the Kings, and his identified mummy was preserved among the royal caches.

Monuments

• Tomb KV15
• Karnak Bark Station of Seti II

Explore further

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