The Hittites were among the first to use iron weapons, giving them a military advantage. Their clash with Egypt at the Battle of Kadesh (1274 BCE), one of history’s earliest recorded battles, ended in a stalemate.

To settle their rivalry, Hittite King Hattusili III and Ramses II signed the Treaty of Kadesh, one of the oldest known peace agreements.

This treaty marked a key moment in ancient diplomacy, reflecting the balance of power between these great civilizations.