Origins & Early Life

Psamtik II (Ancient Egyptian: Nfr-jb-Rꜥ Psmṯk, pronounced Psamāṯək), known by the Graeco-Romans as Psammetichus or Psammeticus, was a king of the Saite-based Twenty-sixth Dynasty of Egypt (595 BC – 589 BC). His prenomen, Nefer-Ib-Re, means "Beautiful [is the] Heart [of] Re." He was the son of Necho II. Psamtik II led a foray into Nubia in 592 BC, marching as far south as the Third or even the Fourth Cataract of the Nile, according to a contemporary stela from Thebes (Karnak), which dates to Year 3 of this king's name and refers to a heavy defeat that was inflicted upon the kingdom of Kush. Victory Stela of Kalabsha of Psamtik II commemorates his victory over Nubia.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

It is now located next to the Mandulis Temple on New Kalabsha. A well-known graffito inscribed in Greek on the left leg of the colossal seated statue of Ramesses II, on the south side of the entrance to the temple of Abu Simbel, records that: When King Psammetichus (i.e., Psamtik II) came to Elephantine, this was written by those who sailed with Psammetichus the son of Theocles, and they came beyond Kerkis as far as the river permits. Those who spoke foreign tongues (Greek and Carians who also...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Cyaxares — Contemporary (Born in -700) (-700): Third King of the Medes, who united Iranian peoples and destroyed the Assyrian Empire.
• Gārgī Vāchaknavī — Contemporary (Born in -700) (-700): Ancient Indian sage and philosopher, renowned for Vedic knowledge and debates.
• Harpagus — Contemporary (Born in -700) (-700): Median general credited with placing Cyrus the Great on the throne.
• Deioces — Contemporary figure (Born in -705) (-705): Founder and first king of the Median Kingdom in the Iranian Plateau.
• -700 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -700
• -589 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -589