Khafre

Definition

Khafre was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty, known for his monumental construction projects, particularly the second pyramid at Giza and the Great Sphinx. As a significant figure in Ancient Egypt, his reign is marked by advancements in architecture, religion, and art, reflecting the civilization's wealth and power during the Old Kingdom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Khafre was the son of Pharaoh Khufu, who built the Great Pyramid, making Khafre part of the lineage of one of Egypt's most powerful dynasties.
2. His pyramid complex includes mortuary temples that were lavishly decorated and served as sites for rituals honoring the deceased pharaoh.
3. The Great Sphinx, attributed to Khafre, was carved from limestone and symbolizes strength and wisdom, possibly serving a protective role for the pyramid complex.
4. Khafre's reign is thought to have occurred around 2570 BCE, contributing to the peak of pyramid construction in Ancient Egypt.
5. The size and design of Khafre's pyramid reflect his power and status, with its original height being slightly less than that of the Great Pyramid built by Khufu.

Review Questions

• What were some key architectural achievements of Khafre during his reign?
  • Khafre's reign is marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of his own pyramid at Giza, which is the second largest after that of his father, Khufu. Additionally, he is credited with the creation of the Great Sphinx, which features a lion's body and human head. These monumental structures not only demonstrate advanced engineering skills but also reflect the cultural and religious significance attributed to pharaohs in Ancient Egyptian society.
• How did Khafre's pyramid complex reflect the religious beliefs and practices of Ancient Egypt?
  • Khafre's pyramid complex included elaborate mortuary temples that played a central role in rituals honoring him after death. These temples were designed to facilitate offerings and worship, showcasing how important it was for pharaohs to be venerated even in the afterlife. The presence of the Great Sphinx also reflects religious beliefs surrounding protection and guidance in the afterlife, emphasizing that pharaohs were seen as divine figures with close ties to the gods.
• Evaluate how Khafre's legacy has influenced our understanding of Ancient Egyptian culture and society.
  • Khafre's legacy has greatly influenced our understanding of Ancient Egyptian culture by highlighting the importance of monumental architecture and its connection to power and religion. The scale and intricacy of his constructions signify the resources available to pharaohs and their ability to mobilize labor for grand projects. Furthermore, artifacts related to Khafre provide insights into social hierarchy, artistic expression, and technological advancements during the Old Kingdom, allowing historians to piece together aspects of daily life in Ancient Egypt while reinforcing the notion of divine kingship.

Related terms

Pyramid of Khafre: The pyramid built for Pharaoh Khafre, which is the second largest of the three pyramids at Giza and features a unique smooth limestone casing at its apex.

Great Sphinx of Giza: A limestone statue with a lion's body and a human head, believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre, located near his pyramid and serving as a guardian figure.

Old Kingdom:

A period in ancient Egyptian history from around 2686 to 2181 BCE, characterized by the building of pyramids and a strong centralized government under powerful pharaohs.