King Menkaure - The Gentle Pyramid Builder

He completed the Giza Necropolis by building the third and final pyramid, which comes to about half the size of the Great Pyramid of King Khufu (his grandfather).

His reign is thought to have lasted about 28 years, but there are some theories that argue that it was less. First of all, some say he could have built a much larger pyramid in 28 years... but then again he didn't really know how long he would rule for to plan a pyramid accordingly!

He is seen here on this slate with the Goddess Hathor on his right, and his wife Queen Khamerernebty II on his left. Both ladies have the same features, but the Goddess wears the sun disc between her cow horns (feature of Hathor).

Also, one King List (of Turin) suggests that his reign was 18 years long. A legend states that it was 12 years long. This legend says that the Gods cursed Egypt with many years of strain and that the King tried to appease them by ruling more kindly and re-opening many temples.

The Oracle of Buto stated that the Gods would lift their curse after his great efforts, but only for 6 years - which after completion the king would no longer reign.

Some say that he died after those six years, some say that he lasted for another six and then died; the second account being that of the great Herodotus himself. But this is a legend and we know how they change through the years!

The third pyramid of Giza was built to a height of 228 feet (70 m), and alongside another smaller pyramid was built for his queen. He was married to Queen Khamerernebty II who was also his sister. He was married to other wives, as were most ancient Egyptian Pharaohs.

He is succeeded by his second son, King Shepeseskaf. His first son Prince Khuenre may have died before him, thus explaining this unusual inheritance of the throne.

Return from King Menkaure to The Pharaohs

Return from King Menkaure to the Experience Ancient Egypt Home Page