
Founder of Dynasty V, sun temple builder.
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Userkaf founded the Fifth Dynasty, succeeding Shepseskaf. His accession marked a new royal line, possibly through marriage or a coup. The dynasty is known for its close association with the sun god Ra and the construction of sun temples.
Userkaf built a sun temple at Abusir, dedicated to Ra. The temple, known as Nekhenre, featured a large obelisk on a platform, an open courtyard, and storage rooms. This was the first of several sun temples built by Fifth Dynasty pharaohs, emphasizing the solar cult.
Userkaf built a pyramid at Saqqara, near the Step Pyramid of Djoser. The pyramid was smaller than those of the Fourth Dynasty, with a base of about 73 meters. It was built of rough stone and mudbrick, reflecting a decline in pyramid construction scale.
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