Pyramid of Khafre
The second-largest pyramid on the Giza plateau, built as a royal cenotaph by Pharaoh Khafre of the IV Dynasty. Remarkable for retaining the only visible casing stones of white Tura limestone from its original surface.
At a glance
Khafre’s pyramid stands on the plain of Giza, distinguished by its elevated rock base and the preserved limestone casing at its apex. Built during the Old Kingdom, it demonstrates the architectural sophistication and ambition of Egypt’s pyramid age.
History
The pyramid was erected by Khafre, the IV ruler of the IV Dynasty, as his own cenotaph. Known in Egyptian as “Wr Kafre”—meaning “Great is Kafre”—the monument exemplifies the monumental building practices of the Old Kingdom. Seismic activity over millennia has caused minor displacement of stones, yet the structure remains largely intact.
What you see
The lower half contains large, rough blocks laid with irregular precision, while upper courses show more careful arrangement. The pyramid rises on a 10-meter-high rock foundation, adding to its apparent height.
The base is clad in red and gray Aswan granite, described by Herodotus as “variegated Ethiopian stone.” Two entrance passages exist due to design changes during construction: one at 11.54 meters high, the other at ground level, which serves modern visitors.
Uniquely, this pyramid retains a section of white limestone casing from Tura at its summit—the only visible example of the gleaming surface that originally covered the entire structure.
Cultural significance
The Pyramid of Khafre represents a pinnacle of pharaonic achievement and architectural knowledge. Second only to Cheops’ pyramid in scale, it documents the refined building techniques and organizational capacity of the Old Kingdom. The preservation of original casing stones provides rare evidence of the monuments’ intended appearance.
Key facts
- Address: Nazlet El-Semman, Al Haram, Giza
- Coordinates: 29.9764557, 31.131375
- Official website: sca-egypt.org
- Ruler: Khafre, IV Dynasty
- Original casing: White limestone from Tura; base in Aswan granite
Practical information
The pyramid is open to visitors through its ground-level entrance. Current hours and admission fees are available through the official Supreme Council of Antiquities website.
Getting there
The Pyramid of Khafre is located on the Giza plateau near Cairo. You can access it via Al Haram Street. Most visitors reach the site by car or organized tour from central Cairo, approximately 20 kilometers away.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
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