Sahure

Sahure was the second pharaoh of the Fifth Dynasty, ruling Egypt from about 2487 to 2475 BC; these dates remain uncertain by around twenty-five years. He was a son of Userkaf and Queen Neferhetepes, taking power during an era of strong central administration based at Memphis.

Sahure chose Abusir for his mortuary complex, establishing a royal burial ground that served multiple successors. His pyramid complex was smaller than Fourth Dynasty monuments, but it stood out for its intricate drainage systems, fine columned courtyards, and extensive painted wall reliefs. He also constructed a dedicated sun temple named Sekhet-Re. Scholars know Sahure from extensive relief fragments found in his mortuary complex, royal annals like the Palermo Stone, and later king lists.

Monuments

• Pyramid complex at Abusir
• Sun temple Sekhet-Re

Explore further

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