Amenhotep III (c. 1386–1353 BCE), the ninth pharaoh of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, was also known by several names—Nebma’atre, Amenophis III, Amunhotep II, and Amana-Hatpa—all reflecting the idea of Amun’s satisfaction or, in the case of Nebma’atre, the concept of balance and harmony (ma’at).

The son of Pharaoh Tuthmosis IV and his secondary wife Mutemwiya, Amenhotep III became the husband of Queen Tiye, the father of Akhenaten, and the grandfather of Tutankhamun and Ankhsenamun. His reign is remembered as one of peace and prosperity, which allowed him to focus on artistic and cultural achievements.

Under his rule, many of Egypt’s most magnificent monuments were constructed, while his military campaigns both secured and expanded Egypt’s borders. He reigned alongside Tiye for 38 years until his death, after which his son Amenhotep IV—later known as Akhenaten—succeeded him.

When Amenhotep inherited the throne at the age of twelve, he received a vast and wealthy empire from his father. As the Egyptologist Zahi Hawass notes: “Amenhotep III was born into a world where Egypt reigned supreme. Its coffers were filled with gold, and its vassals bowed down before the mighty rulers of the Two Lands [Egypt]” (27). Upon his marriage to Tiye, she was immediately elevated to the esteemed position of Great Royal Wife, a title never granted to Amenhotep’s own mother, Mutemwiya—making Tiye more influential in courtly affairs than the king’s mother.

Following this, Amenhotep pursued his father’s policies while also initiating ambitious new building projects across Egypt. Known for his diplomatic skill, he cultivated alliances with neighboring kingdoms through lavish gifts of gold, ensuring their loyalty and cooperation. His generosity strengthened Egypt’s influence abroad and secured prosperous relations with other nations.