Ramses takes a trip across town

The 3,200-year-old statue of the ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II has been moved from Cairo square and is en-route to a site near the pyramids.

Egyptian officials moved the 83-tonne statue last night (August 24th) and the monument is moving slowly through Cairo to its final destination.

There had been concerns that the statue was becoming damaged by pollution and general city wear and tear.

Cairo square now has train lines and bridges that obstructed the view of Ramses II's monument.

The site near the pyramids will allow the statue to form part of the most fascinating historical region on the planet.

The Pyramid of Giza is the only ancient wonder that has survived the test of time and many believe Ramses takes his rightful place in the area.

Zahi Hawass, the head of Egypt's antiquities council, told the BBC: "Ramses will be happy now.

"He would have been unhappy in his tomb knowing that the statue was staying in such a mess where nobody can see him any more."

As the statue is moved through Cairo many locals can see the head of Ramses through the protective sheeting in place to prevent further damage.

Ramses II ruled Egypt for more than 60 years and is one of the most documented pharaohs to have ever existed.