Huni

Huni was the last pharaoh of the Third Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, ruling from the capital at Memphis. He is estimated to have reigned for about 24 years, from approximately 2637 BC to 2613 BC, with dates uncertain by around 20 years. His reign formed a critical bridge between early step pyramid building and the architectural triumphs of his successor Sneferu.

Huni focused on expanding central administration throughout Upper and Lower Egypt. Small, non-sepulchral step pyramids were erected at various provincial sites, including a notable stone monument on Elephantine Island, serving as regional symbols of royal authority. His burial place remains disputed; while some scholars credit him with beginning the step pyramid at Meidum, which was later modified by Sneferu, others place his tomb elsewhere. Scholars know Huni through quarry inscriptions, administrative papyri such as the Prisse Papyrus, and later New Kingdom king lists.

Monuments

• Meidum Pyramid
• Elephantine step pyramid

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Try the name on the Cartouche Desk, or see where the reign falls on the timeline.