Pyramid of Hetepheres I — Attraction in Giza

The Tomb of Hetepheres I is a significant archaeological site located within the Giza Necropolis, near the Great Pyramid. While it is often referred to as a "pyramid," it is actually a deep burial shaft or pit tomb, designated G 7000 X, that was constructed for the mother of King Khufu. This tomb is not a major attraction for most tourists, as it is not a large, visible structure like the main pyramids. However, its historical importance is immense. It is most famous for the discovery of a nearly complete collection of royal funerary furniture and burial goods belonging to Queen Hetepheres I. Although the sarcophagus was found to be empty, the rich collection of objects—including a gilded carrying chair, a bed, and a canopy—provided unparalleled insight into the life and wealth of the Old Kingdom royal family. Visitor Experience For most visitors to the Giza Necropolis, the tomb itself is not accessible or a part of the standard tour. The site is an archaeological point of interest rather than a public entry point. The real "review" of Hetepheres' legacy is not at the tomb but at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where many of her priceless artifacts are on display. Seeing her carefully restored furniture and jewelry at the museum is a highlight for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian history and art. In short, while you can see the location of the tomb on the Giza Plateau, the true experience of appreciating the Tomb of Hetepheres I lies in visiting the museum to see the magnificent treasures...

The Pyramid of Hetepheres I stands on the eastern side of the Great Pyramid of Khufu at Giza and belongs to Queen Hetepheres I, the mother of King Khufu and wife of King Sneferu, the founder of the 4th Dynasty. This makes her one of the most important royal women in ancient Egyptian history, directly linking the great pyramid builders of Giza with the earlier monumental achievements at Dahshur.

Although called a “pyramid,” Hetepheres’ monument is modest in size compared to the great pyramids nearby. It once had smooth white limestone casing, but today only its core and foundations remain. Despite its ruined state, the site gained immense fame because of the remarkable burial treasures discovered here in 1925, including exquisite furniture, gold objects, and jewelry that revealed the luxury and artistry of the Old Kingdom. Many of these priceless artifacts are now displayed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

The pyramid’s location near Khufu’s Great Pyramid reflects Hetepheres’ elevated status as queen mother. Her monument, along with the other queens’ pyramids, forms part of the royal necropolis that honored not only the kings but also the women who ensured dynastic continuity.

For modern visitors, the Pyramid of Hetepheres I may appear understated, yet it tells one of the richest stories of all the Giza monuments. It highlights the role of royal women, the sophistication of Old Kingdom craftsmanship, and the intimate connection between family and kingship at the height of ancient...

This is a small pyramid of the Queen Hetepheres next to the great pyramid of Khufu. It is FREE to enter once you are on site, not like the 3 Great Pyramids which cost $15 and $10. Its a long claustrophobic decent to the bottom of this pyramid (tricky for taller people) and it reveals a small underground burial chamber. It's hot, stuffy and crampped and was difficult to get into down the final ladder. It was a great experience to enter into an ancient tomb of Queen Hetepheres I - who lived...