Djedefres

Djedefres was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty. He reigned during the Old Kingdom. Information about his reign is somewhat limited, but he is generally believed to have succeeded his father, Khufu, the builder of the Great Pyramid. However, this succession is not universally accepted, with some scholars proposing that Djedefre's father might have been Khufu's son, Kawab, or even a different individual altogether.

Djedefre's pyramid complex was located at Abu Rawash, north of Giza. This location is unusual, as most Fourth Dynasty pyramids are situated at Giza or Dahshur. His pyramid at Abu Rawash is believed to have been the first to incorporate granite in its construction, a significant innovation. Unfortunately, most of his pyramid has been destroyed over time, making detailed study difficult.

Few contemporary inscriptions bearing Djedefre's name have survived. The most significant are fragments of a colossal statue found at Abu Rawash, which likely represented him. The Turin King List, a later compilation, lists Djedefre as a successor to Khufu. His reign is estimated to have lasted between eight and twenty years. Djedefre was married and had several children, though their identities and roles are not well-documented. His successor is generally identified as his brother, Khafre, who is credited with building the second-largest pyramid at Giza.