Battle of Kadesh

1274 BCE · Kadeş, Suriye · war

Around 1274 BCE, the armies of Egypt (Ramesses II) and the Hittite Empire (Muwatalli II) clashed at Kadesh on the bank of the Orontes River in present-day Syria.

It is regarded as the first major pitched battle in history for which a detailed record was kept; both sides claimed victory, but no decisive outcome emerged. The battle determined the balance and borders of the two great powers in the Near East.

Related civilizations

Frequently asked questions

What was Battle of Kadesh?
Around 1274 BCE, the armies of Egypt (Ramesses II) and the Hittite Empire (Muwatalli II) clashed at Kadesh on the bank of the Orontes River in present-day Syria.
When did Battle of Kadesh happen?
1274 BCE
Where did Battle of Kadesh take place?
Kadeş, Suriye