Pyramid of Khentkaus II, Fifth Dynasty pyramid in Abusir, Egypt.
The pyramid of Khentkaus II is a limestone monument in Abusir built with a base measuring roughly 25 meters and currently standing at about 4 meters high. The structure features smooth-angled sides and contains a burial chamber with remains of a granite sarcophagus, connected to an adjacent temple complex.
Queen Khentkaus II ordered the construction of this monument during the reign of Neferirkare Kakai, with building phases continuing under her son Nyuserre Ini. The structure dates to the Fifth Dynasty and reflects the ongoing evolution of royal burial sites during that period.
The temple displays wall carvings showing processions, ritual scenes, and offerings that reveal how people understood death and the afterlife in ancient times. These carved images give visitors a window into the spiritual beliefs of the Fifth Dynasty.
The complex is located in Abusir and is readily accessible from Cairo, with the excavation site relatively easy to navigate. Visitors should prepare for uneven ground and limited shelter, and exploring during cooler parts of the day is recommended.
Unlike most royal pyramid complexes of the time, this one features independent ceremonial structures without a valley temple or causeway connecting to it. This departure from standard designs offers important insights into how royal burial practices were evolving during this period.
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