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AN EXHIBITION FEATURING THE SARCOPHAGUS OF RAMSES II OPENS IN THE FRENCH CAPITAL ON FRIDAY (APRIL 7) The coffin of “the greatest pharaoh to rule over ancient Egypt” is the star attraction of

an exhibition that opens in Paris on Friday (April 7). It is among 180 items - many rarely seen outside Egypt - on display at La Villette. Ramses II, born in 1303 BC, ruled for more than 60

years, during which Egyptian domination over Nubia was established and the temple of Abou Simbel built. His ornate coffin, or sarcophagus, arrived in France under police protection.

However, while it will be on display in the French capital until September, it does not contain the king's mummy, which has remained at a museum in Cairo. The loan of the coffin is

recognition of French assistance in helping save the mummy from decay following a previous visit to Paris in 1976. “We are thrilled to present this wonderful ensemble to the world,” said Ron

Tan, Group Executive Chairman and CEO of Cityneon Holdings, whose team of experts helped design the exhibition. “This spectacular exhibition will feature 181 rare Egyptian artefacts, the

most impressive collection illustrating the grandeur of pharaonic royalty. “Visitors will stroll among priceless relics of the great pharaoh and will also be able to immerse themselves in

the atmosphere of the time thanks to a virtual reality experience.” Dr Zahi Hawass, Egypt’s former minister of antiquities and an archaeologist, said Ramses II was considered the greatest

pharaoh to have reigned over the ancient kingdom. “Many of the artefacts and structures that we have used to trace the history of Egypt date from his reign. This exhibition will highlight

the pivotal moments that allowed the great pharaoh to enter history.” Tickets are available from THE EXHIBITION’S WEBSITE. RELATED ARTICLES NEW TUTANKHAMUN SHOW BREAKS FRANCE VISITOR RECORD

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