The famous Egyptian ruler known for his construction of temples and monuments is Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great. Reigning from 1279 to 1213 BCE, he is often regarded as one of Egypt's most powerful and effective pharaohs. Ramses II is renowned for his monumental building projects, including the temples at Abu Simbel and the Ramesseum, as well as his extensive military campaigns. His reign is marked by stability and prosperity, and he left a lasting legacy that has fascinated historians and Egyptologists for centuries.