Menkaure was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty, known for commissioning the third and smallest of the three main pyramids at Giza. His reign is often associated with the construction of monumental architecture and the continuation of the pyramid-building tradition initiated by his predecessors, Khufu and Khafre. Despite being less famous than his father and grandfather, Menkaure's pyramid complex included a mortuary temple and several smaller pyramids for his queens. His legacy is also marked by exquisite statues and artifacts that reflect the artistry of the Old Kingdom, showcasing the cultural achievements of ancient Egypt.