The Pyramid of Khentkaous II is located on the Giza Plateau in Egypt and was built for Queen Khentkaous II, wife of Pharaoh Neferirkare Kakai of the XNUMXth Dynasty. Although smaller and less imposing than those of its neighbors on the Giza site, the pyramid of Khentkaous II is of great importance because of its association with a queen who played a major role in the political and religious life of the time.
Architectural features of the pyramid
The structure of the pyramid of Khentkaous II is distinguished by its core of mud bricks covered with limestone. This method of construction, although less durable than that used for the great pyramids, testifies to the technical innovations and the economic constraints which the builders of the time had to face.
The funerary complex of Khentkaous II
The mortuary temple and its elements
The funerary complex surrounding the pyramid of Khentkaous II includes a mortuary temple, which served both as a place of worship for the late queen and as a place where offerings were placed. This temple was composed of several elements, including a colonnaded courtyard, stores for offerings, and a chapel for the worship of the deceased queen.
Other architectural elements of the complex
In addition to the mortuary temple, the Khentkaous II funerary complex also houses other architectural elements, such as a valley temple, a causeway connecting the two temples, and secondary tombs for members of the royal family and dignitaries. . These elements bear witness to the richness and complexity of ancient Egyptian civilization.
The importance of Khentkaous II and the place of women in Egyptian society
The pyramid of Khentkaous II illustrates the importance given to the queen in Egyptian society at the time. As the wife of the pharaoh and mother of his successors, Khentkaous II played a crucial role in the dynastic continuity and political stability of the kingdom. Funerary monuments dedicated to queens, such as the pyramid of Khentkaous II, show the important place women occupied in ancient Egyptian society, particularly in the political and religious spheres.
Average temperatures and climate
Month | (° C) | (° F) | Weather | Climate |
---|---|---|---|---|
January | 14 | 57 | ☀️ | Sec |
February | 15 | 59 | ☀️ | Sec |
Mars | 19 | 66 | ☀️ | Sec |
April | 23 | 73 | ☀️ | Sec |
May | 27 | 81 | ☀️ | Sec |
June | 30 | 86 | ☀️ | Sec |
July | 32 | 90 | ☀️ | Sec |
August | 32 | 90 | ☀️ | Sec |
September | 29 | 84 | ☀️ | Sec |
October | 25 | 77 | ☀️ | Sec |
November | 20 | 68 | ☀️ | Sec |
December | 16 | 61 | ☀️ | Sec |
Schedules and info
- Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. to 17:00 p.m. (times may vary depending on the season)
- Entrance Fee: Access to the Pyramid of Khentkaous II is usually included in the entrance ticket to the Giza Plateau, which costs EGP 200 for adults and EGP 100 for students.
- Average price for a guide: 150-250 EGP
Other pyramids
List of Egyptian Pyramids |
Lower Egypt |
Upper Egypt |