The Pyramid of Menkaure is an ancient Egyptian marvel located in Giza, built around 2510 BC during the Old Kingdom period.
It is the smallest of the three main pyramids in Giza. It is made of massive limestone blocks and stands about 65 meters (213 feet) tall.
Originally, it served as a tomb for Pharaoh Menkaure.
You can admire its architecture and learn about the rich history of ancient Egypt at this remarkable pyramid.
Menkaure and the Pyramids of Giza
Menkaure and the Pyramids of Giza transport us to ancient Egypt’s grandeur.
Pharaoh Menkaure ruled during the Old Kingdom and left a lasting legacy with the smallest Giza pyramids.
Let’s explore the fascinating history between Menkaure and his pyramid.
Who Was the Pharaoh Menkaure?
Pharaoh Menkaure, a significant figure in ancient Egypt’s history, reigned around 2532-2504 BC in the Old Kingdom.
He’s best known for constructing the third and smallest pyramid at Giza, named after him.
Menkaure’s rule marked a time of cultural development and pyramid building.
His pyramid complex provides insights into the beliefs and practices of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Building the Pyramid of Menkaure
The construction of the Pyramid of Menkaure 4,500 years ago was a remarkable feat of ancient Egyptian engineering.
Workers quarried massive stone blocks nearby and used ramps, rollers, and human labor to transport and assemble them.
The pyramid’s unique design includes three subsidiary pyramids for the pharaoh’s queens and a stunning granite-clad base.
Though smaller than the neighboring pyramids, Menkaure’s pyramid reflects the incredible craftsmanship and architecture!
About the Pyramid of Menkaure
The Pyramid of Menkaure, located in Giza, Egypt, is one of the three iconic pyramids in the area.
Built around 2532-2504 BC during the Old Kingdom, it’s the smallest of the Giza pyramids.
Made of limestone and granite, it features an elegant design with three smaller pyramids for queens.
The pyramid’s intricate construction reveals the advanced engineering skills of ancient Egyptians.
Despite its size, it is a testament to the pharaoh’s legacy.
Best way to visit the Pyramid of Menkaure
The easiest way to travel is with pre-booked tickets. You are tension-free and can, quite literally, just waltz in.
Booking your entry tickets to the Pyramid of Menkaure before you visit is essential and saves you the time of buying tickets on-site.
The best ticket for you if you want to visit the Pyramid of Menkaure is:
Pyramid of Menkaure, Sphinx, Memphis, and Saqqara with Lunch
With this guided half-day tour of the Giza Complex, you will have the chance to witness the smallest pyramid of the pack- the pyramid of Menkaure.
That’s not all; you will also have a private guide who will provide you with fascinating insights into the history of ancient Egypt.
Not just the pyramids, you will be visiting the Sphinx, Memphis and the Saqqara too.
You will also have the opportunity to ride a camel across the desert! After which, you end this half-day tour with an Egyptian lunch!
Ticket includes:
- Entry to the Pyramid of Menkaure exterior only
- Entrance to the Sphinx, Memphis, and Saqqara
- Camel ride and lunch
Ticket Prices:
| Age of the visitor | Ticket prices |
|---|---|
| Adult (ages 12 to 99) | EGP 090 ($197) |
| Child (ages 6 to 11) | EGP 2936 ($95) |
| Infants (ages 0 to 5) | ($0) |
How to reach the Pyramid of Menkaure
The Pyramid of Menkaure is located on the Giza Plateau, near Cairo, Egypt.
This historical treasure is part of the famous Giza pyramid complex, including the larger pyramids of Khufu and Khafre and the iconic Great Sphinx.
Address: Giza Necropolis, Al Giza Desert, Giza Governorate, Egypt. Get Directions.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is easily accessible from Cairo, making it a popular destination for travelers and archeologists.
By Bus
CTA buses offer routes that extend beyond Giza, with Routes 355 and 357 being the ones that will take you to the Pyramids.
These buses depart from locations around El Tahir Square and the Egyptian Museum, with the journey taking approximately one hour.
The nearest bus stop to the Pyramids is Al Mansour Road. Tickets can be purchased from the conductor on board, costing between EGP 3 to EGP 3.5.
These buses may not have English labels, so it’s best to ask the driver or conductor about the destination.
By Microbus
Microbuses, or small vans, are another popular transportation option. They operate along significant routes to the pyramids and can usually be found near bus stops.
Microbuses typically lack labels, so you’ll need to inquire with the driver about their route.
Ticket prices may vary among drivers but generally start at EGP 2. The journey to the pyramids by microbus takes around 40 minutes.
By Metro
For the quickest route to the Pyramids of Giza, consider taking the Metro line M2, which runs to Giza.
The metro journey to the pyramids takes only 20 minutes. The nearest metro stops to the pyramids are El Giza and Omm El-Misryeen.
You can take a taxi or bus from these stops to reach the pyramids. Metro ticket prices start at EGP 2, depending on your boarding location.
By Taxi/ Driving
If you prefer the convenience of a taxi, both Uber and Careem are popular ride-sharing apps in Cairo. If you wish to drive, you can use Google Maps to guide you.
It typically takes around 30 minutes to reach the pyramids by car, and you can choose which entrance to get off at.
For a taxi booked online, expect to pay approximately EGP 60 ($2) or more.
Best time to visit the Pyramid of Menkaure
Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is best.
This can help you avoid the crowds and enjoy the site’s beauty in a quieter atmosphere.
However, be mindful of the possibility of larger tourist groups during peak seasons.
The best time to visit the Pyramid of Menkaure and the Giza Plateau is during Egypt’s cooler months, from November to February.
These months offer more comfortable temperatures for exploring the ancient wonders without the scorching heat of summer.
If you are planning to visit Pyramids of Giza, here are some more information to help you plan your visit:
Pyramids of Menkaure – FAQs
1. What is the Pyramid of Menkaure?
The Pyramid of Menkaure is an ancient Egyptian pyramid located at the Giza Plateau near Cairo.
It’s the smallest of the three pyramids at Giza and is dedicated to Pharaoh Menkaure.
2. Who built the Pyramid of Menkaure?
The Pyramid of Menkaure was built under the direction of Pharaoh Menkaure during the Old Kingdom period of ancient Egypt, around 2532-2504 BC.
It was constructed as his tomb.
3. How did the Pyramid of Menkaure get damaged?
The Pyramid of Menkaure suffered damage over time due to natural erosion, earthquakes, and even stone removal by later civilizations for building materials.
Some of its outer casing stones were removed, exposing the inner core.
4. Can you go inside the Pyramid of Menkaure?
No, the Pyramid of Menkaure is not open to the public for entry. Visitors can explore its exterior but cannot go inside.
5. How tall is the Pyramid of Menkaure?
The Pyramid of Menkaure originally stood at about 65 meters (213 feet) in height, but it is slightly shorter today due to the loss of its outer casing stones.
6. Can I buy tickets to visit the Pyramid of Menkaure?
Yes, you have to buy tickets to visit the Pyramid of Menkaure.
Visitors are only allowed to explore the exterior and not the inside.
Featured Image: Britannica.com