# Amenemhat III

> pharaoh of the Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt

**Wikidata**: [Q19244](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19244)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amenemhat_III)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/amenemhat-iii

## Summary
Amenemhat III was a pharaoh of the Twelfth Dynasty of Ancient Egypt. He is known for commissioning major architectural projects, including the construction of the Pyramid of Amenemhat III, also referred to as The Black Pyramid, located at Dahshur.

## Biography
- Nationality: Ancient Egypt
- Known for: Ruling during the Twelfth Dynasty and constructing the Pyramid of Amenemhat III
- Employer(s): Government of Ancient Egypt (as pharaoh)
- Field(s): Politics, architecture

## Contributions
Amenemhat III is primarily known for his construction of the Pyramid of Amenemhat III, a smooth-sided pyramid located at Dahshur. This structure, often called The Black Pyramid, is one of the five remaining pyramids from the original eleven built at the Dahshur site. His architectural legacy is a key part of Egypt's Middle Kingdom.

## FAQs
### What is Amenemhat III known for?
Amenemhat III is known for being a pharaoh of the Twelfth Dynasty of Ancient Egypt and for commissioning the construction of the Pyramid of Amenemhat III, also known as The Black Pyramid.

### Where did Amenemhat III rule?
Amenemhat III ruled in Ancient Egypt, during a period now recognized as part of the Middle Kingdom.

### What pyramid did Amenemhat III build?
He built the Pyramid of Amenemhat III, located at Dahshur. It is one of the few remaining pyramids at the site and is also known as The Black Pyramid.

### What dynasty was Amenemhat III part of?
Amenemhat III was a ruler during the Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt.

### Is there anything else named after Amenemhat III?
Yes, the asteroid 5010 Amenemhêt is named in reference to him.

## Why They Matter
Amenemhat III’s reign is significant for its architectural contributions to Ancient Egypt, particularly through the construction of monumental structures like the Pyramid of Amenemhat III. His rule represents a key phase in the Middle Kingdom, during which Egypt experienced a resurgence in monumental building. His legacy is tied to the physical and political infrastructure of the era, influencing later pharaonic building practices. Without his leadership, the architectural and administrative developments of the Twelfth Dynasty might have unfolded differently.

## Notable For
- Commissioning the construction of the Pyramid of Amenemhat III (The Black Pyramid) at Dahshur
- Being a ruler of the Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt
- Having an asteroid, 5010 Amenemhêt, named in his honor

## Body
### Early Life
There is no detailed information available regarding the early life or birth of Amenemhat III. As a pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, he would have been raised within the royal family and prepared for rulership in accordance with the traditions of the time.

### Career
Amenemhat III ruled during the height of the Middle Kingdom, a period known for its cultural and architectural achievements. As pharaoh, he was the head of state and the primary figure in the political and religious structure of Ancient Egypt. His reign is associated with significant construction projects, including his own mortuary complex.

### Projects
The most notable project associated with Amenemhat III is the construction of the Pyramid of Amenemhat III, also known as The Black Pyramid. Located at Dahshur, this smooth-sided pyramid is one of the few remaining of the original eleven pyramids built at the site. The structure is a testament to the engineering and architectural capabilities of the Middle Kingdom and remains a significant archaeological site.

### Influence
Amenemhat III's influence is primarily seen through his architectural legacy. His pyramid stands as a symbol of the power and permanence of the pharaonic state during the Twelfth Dynasty. His rule contributed to the broader cultural and political stability of the Middle Kingdom.

### Legacy
The legacy of Amenemhat III is preserved through his monumental constructions, particularly the Black Pyramid. This structure continues to be studied by Egyptologists and serves as a key reference point for understanding Middle Kingdom architecture. His name also survives in modern culture through the naming of the asteroid 5010 Amenemhêt, linking his historical identity to contemporary scientific nomenclature.

## References

1. Dictionary of African Biography
2. Beckerath 1997
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013