Amasis II

Lore & Background

Amasis II was of common origins and originally an officer in the Egyptian army. Sent to quell the revolt, Amasis was instead proclaimed king by the rebels. Amasis then married Khedebneithirbinet II, a daughter of Apries, to legitimize his rule. His mother was Tashereniset, and his maternal grandmother was Tjenmutetj. His court included officials such as the head of the gate guard Ahmose-sa-Neith and the doctor Udjahorresnet.

Reader's Guide

Amasis II's reign marked a period of prosperity and cultural exchange. He adorned temples, especially in Lower Egypt, with monolithic shrines and other monuments. He also made alliances with Polycrates of Samos and Croesus of Lydia. In his fourth year (c. Later, the rise of Persia under Cyrus the Great threatened Egypt. His tomb at Sais, described by Herodotus as a great cloistered building with palm-tree pillars, was later desecrated by Cambyses.

Did You Know?

• Amasis II was the first pharaoh to conquer Cyprus since Thutmose III.
• He married a Greek princess named Ladice, daughter of King Battus III of Cyrene.
• His mummy was desecrated by the Persian king Cambyses after the conquest of Egypt.