Userkaf
(Userkhaf)
2465-2458 B.C.
5th Dynasty
Userkaf was the founder of the 5th Dynasty.
He ruled Ancient Egypt from 2465 BC until 2458 BC. His
wife, Queen Khentkaues, was of royal blood. Historians
say that Userkaf married her to align himself with the
royal line. Unfortunately, his reign is not well
documented, but he built a marvelous pyramid at Saqqara.
His architecture and decoration demonstrates the artistic
glory of the era. The pyramid was designed to act as a
chapel for offerings and a as a mortuary temple for the
king. The temple court has square granite columns in all
the corners and some beautiful reliefs on the walls. Two
of the temple's busts were recovered recently.
|