Introduction to the Great Egyptian Museum

The Great Egyptian Museum, located close to the Pyramids of Giza, is set to become one of the most significant and impressive museums in the world. Its purpose is to preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of ancient Egypt, providing visitors with a unique experience that blends art, history, and modern technology.

The Great Egyptian Museum: A Major National Project

The Great Egyptian Museum (GEM) is one of Egypt’s most ambitious national projects. It aims to be a key resource for tourism in Egypt and an important reference point in global culture and media. This museum showcases the depth of Egypt’s international partnerships and is the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization—ancient Egypt.

The museum has two main goals: to preserve and restore Egypt’s cultural and historical heritage and to promote educational activities, including the display of artifacts. The GEM aspires to be a vital center for sharing knowledge and understanding of Egyptian history with the world.

A significant aspect of the museum is its collaboration with Japan. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has provided substantial financial support, totaling around $800 million, through two official loans. JICA has also offered technical assistance, helping to establish the GEM Restoration Center, which is responsible for the care, restoration, packaging, and transportation of artifacts.

This partnership includes expertise in managing and operating the museum and its exhibitions, aiding preparations for the museum’s opening. One of the most exciting projects is the restoration of Khufu’s second ship, also known as the second solar boat, located near the Pyramids. This remarkable artifact is set to be displayed in the museum and will be a major attraction, further enriching the GEM’s offerings and showcasing the brilliance of ancient Egyptian civilization.

The Grand Egyptian Museum: Construction and Opening

The Grand Egyptian Museum, a monumental project dedicated to celebrating the rich history of ancient Egypt, is set to open its doors in November this year. This long-awaited opening signifies a new chapter for what is being called the largest museum in Egypt and one of the largest in the world. The construction of the museum began in 2002, when then-President Hosni Mubarak officially announced the project. However, work was interrupted in 2011 due to the Egyptian uprising, which led to significant delays as the political situation changed in the country.

Originally, the museum was scheduled to open in 2018, but its opening was postponed several times—first to 2019, then to 2020, and again to 2021—largely due to challenges posed by the global pandemic. In recent years, there has been a focused effort to complete this remarkable cultural site, and it is rumored that there will be a “soft opening” at the end of this year, with an official opening planned for early 2024.

Strategically located near the Pyramids of Giza, the museum is positioned away from the crowded center of Cairo, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors. This location not only enhances the museum experience but also allows guests to explore the rich cultural heritage surrounding it.

The construction of the Grand Egyptian Museum represents a significant advancement in promoting and preserving Egypt’s heritage. It is expected to attract tourists from around the globe and become a source of national pride. With its incredible collection of priceless artifacts and innovative architectural design, the museum aims to be one of the leading cultural destinations in the 21st century.

History and Development

The idea behind the Grand Egyptian Museum was to replace the older Egyptian Museum in Tahrir, which houses a vast array of historical artifacts. The project has faced numerous challenges and delays over the years, but it finally opened to the public in 2023. This ambitious undertaking involved the work of internationally acclaimed architects and engineers, including the renowned Swiss architect Hans Hollein, highlighting the project’s significance and scale.

Architecture and Design

The museum covers an area of ​​over 480,000 square meters, with a structure that combines modern and traditional architectural elements. The façade is characterized by a large atrium, while the interior is s uddivided into several thematic galleries that house millions of artifacts. The museum design also includes green spaces and outdoor areas, providing a pleasant environment for visitors.

When will the Grand Egyptian Museum open?

The Grand Egyptian Museum is expected to be one of the most exciting museum and tourism openings in the world. After several delays, it is finally set to become one of the must-see experiences for those visiting Cairo. It is scheduled to open in early 2024, sparking great excitement among history and culture enthusiasts.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, 88% of the museum’s rooms have been completed, a testament to the impressive work that has been done in recent years. While the exact date of the official opening is still unknown, reports suggest that the museum will be ready to welcome visitors eager to explore its extraordinary heritage.

The Grand Egyptian Museum will not only be a world-class facility, but will also have a significant impact on Egyptian tourism, helping to boost the local economy and support the surrounding communities. With its vast collection of ancient artifacts and innovative architecture, the museum promises to attract visitors from all over the world, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the millennia-old history of Egypt.

Therefore, if you are planning a day tour to Egypt, consider including a visit to this monumental museum, which promises to be a true cultural treasure and an unforgettable experience.

What can I see when I visit the Grand Egyptian Museum?

You will see these sites (as stated precisely by the management of the GEM)

-Hanging Obelisk

The first hanging obelisk in the world has been installed in the GEM – Grand Egyptian Museum.

This is the first design of its kind in Egypt and in the world. The new design offers visitors a unique perspective as they will be standing on a glass plate under their feet, resting on the base of the obelisk.

-Statue of Ramses II

The statue of Ramses is the first major artifact to enter the permanent collection of the GEM.

-10 Statues of Senusret I

10 Statues of Senusert from afar, a great way to appreciate the artistry that went into creating these ancient works of art.

-Grand Staircase

Steps to Eternity Prepare to be transported on a journey of the ancient Egyptian kings to eternity as you ascend the Grand Staircase, surrounded by a meticulously curated collection of 64 monumental treasures from Egypt’s most illustrious past.

-Ptolemaic King and Queen

We will see the Ptolemaic King and Queen exhibits as we continue our tour. These exhibits highlight the fascinating history and culture of Egypt’s Ptolemaic period and you will learn a lot about this exciting period in human history.

-Pillars of Victory

Pillars of Victory, which are colossal works of ancient Egyptian art. These columns were built to commemorate military victories and are adorned with carvings and other eye-catching decorations.

-Royal Regalia

The Royal Regalia exhibits showcase royal jewels, crowns and other royal accessories worn by ancient Egyptian kings and queens. You will be amazed by the craftsmanship that goes into creating these lovely items.

-Grand Atrium and Souvenir Shop

You can enjoy visiting the Grand Atrium and Souvenir Shop, you will also have access to the official souvenir shop.

-Commercial Boulevard

The commercial area tour is available from 09:00 to 18:00

The Grand Staircase

Steps to Eternity Prepare to be transported on a journey of ancient Egyptian kings to eternity as you ascend the Grand Staircase, surrounded by a meticulously curated collection of 64 monumental treasures from Egypt’s most illustrious past. The kings established their royal image, commemorated themselves in divine houses, assimilated with gods and goddesses and finally concluded their presence on the journey to eternity with a panoramic view of the Pyramids of Giza.

The Grand Staircase

You could visit the grand staircase that looks like a six-story building divided into four levels.

The first

is called the “royal image”. these are the kings who ordered images of themselves showing an all-powerful leader chosen for his greatness by the gods. Royal statues and reliefs were placed in temples, palaces and royal tombs and sometimes in private homes and tombs.

The second level

These are the divine houses. the temples were the homes of the gods, whose souls lived inside the statue where offerings were placed for the king who died in the afterlife.

On the third level

On the third level are depicted the Kings. The gods were responsible for different aspects of life, including the sky, the Nile River, the desert and the underworld. The king was in charge of the land of Egypt and represented the gods on earth. The kings They were the only people allowed to order new statues of gods, and many have faces similar to the kings who paid for them.

The Final Level

The final level is called the Journey to Eternity. Death and royal burial were just the beginning. In the Old Kingdom, the king’s soul traveled to the heavens to become a star, and in the New Kingdom, it also transformed into Osiris, King of the Underworld. To protect their bodies, kings were buried under pyramids within temple precincts during the Middle Third and Late Periods.

At the end of the grand staircase, you will see the pyramids through the glass wall. This is the first time the pyramids have been part of the show.

“Tutankhamun – The Immersive Exhibition”

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is proud to announce an exclusive

temporary exhibition that promises to provide an enchanting

perspective on the compelling history of Ancient Egypt.

For the first time in Egypt, the GEM will host the acclaimed

Rediscover the story of King Tutankhamun in a whole new way.

In a truly immersive experience, using cutting-edge digital projections,

visitors will step into the life of the legendary King Tutankhamun,

embarking on a remarkable audiovisual journey spanning over 3,400

years of history. As they explore the recreated temples, treasures and

secrets of Ancient Egypt, they will be enveloped in a 360-degree visual spectacle,

accompanied by an exceptional soundtrack that enhances

the experience.

What’s in the Grand Egyptian Museum?

Inside the Grand Egyptian Museum are over 100,000 extraordinary artefacts, including the famous treasure from the tomb of Tutankhamun. One of the most famous pharaohs of Ancient Egypt’s 18th dynasty, this pharaoh has become a symbol of Egyptian wealth and culture thanks to the opulent treasures and documentation discovered in his tomb, which was discovered almost intact in 1922. His legacy is intrinsically linked to the global perception of Egyptian history, and now all of his priceless treasures will finally be revealed to the world.

The Tutankhamun Gallery will house all 5,000 objects found in his tomb for the first time, ranging from votive objects for the afterlife to exquisite clothing, glittering jewelry and chariots used during his life. These artifacts will be displayed in two enormous halls, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the life and beliefs of this young pharaoh.

In addition, the museum’s impressive atrium is dominated by a colossal statue of Pharaoh Ramesses II, almost 11 meters tall and dating back some 3,200 years. This majestic statue greets visitors upon entry and immediately becomes a landmark within the facility. A grand staircase leads to the plateau level, where visitors can explore the museum galleries, with views overlooking the ancient wonders.

Perfectly integrated into the museum’s design, a series of manicured gardens help create a pleasant microclimate, offering an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the complex. These green spaces not only beautify the environment, but also invite visitors to reflect and immerse themselves in the beauty of Egyptian culture, making a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum an unforgettable and enriching experience.

Tutankhamun Exhibition at the Grand Egyptian Museum

The Tutankhamun Exhibition at the Grand Egyptian Museum is one of the most anticipated and significant events in the international cultural landscape. This exhibition not only celebrates the life and legacy of the young pharaoh, but also offers a unique opportunity to explore the extraordinary culture of ancient Egypt through its priceless treasures.

The Story of Tutankhamun

Tutankhamun, known as the “Boy Pharaoh,” reigned during the 18th Dynasty and became famous for his tomb, discovered almost intact in 1922 by Howard Carter. The discovery of over 5,000 artifacts has captured the world’s imagination, revealing the funerary customs, daily life and religious beliefs of the era. The exhibition at the GEM aims to delve deeper into these aspects, presenting an immersive journey into the history of this legendary pharaoh.

Exhibition Details

The Tutankhamun exhibition at the Grande Museo Egizio will host an extraordinary selection of artifacts, including:

Funerary Mask: Tutankhamun’s famous golden mask, a symbol of his royalty and connection to the afterlife.

Jewelry: An extensive collection of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets and rings, many adorned with precious stones and religious symbols.

Everyday Objects: Artifacts that illustrate the pharaoh’s daily life, such as tools, clothing and toys, offering a close-up look at his habits.

An Interactive Exhibition

The exhibition does not simply present static objects; it is designed to be an interactive experience. Using modern technologies such as augmented reality and multimedia installations, visitors will be able to explore the life and reign of Tutankhamun in an immersive way. Through simulations and videos, it will be possible to witness historical reconstructions that will bring to life the significant events of his life and reign.

Cultural Significance

This exhibition is an important initiative to promote Egyptian culture globally. The Tutankhamun exhibition at the GEM will not only attract tourists from all over the world, but will also help strengthen Egyptian national pride. It will be an opportunity to educate the new generations about the importance of the country’s cultural heritage and its contribution to the history of humanity.

The Grand Egyptian Museum is a modern architectural marvel that houses an extraordinary collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. With its vast collection, including the treasures of Tutankhamun, the museum offers an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Its prime location near the pyramids of Giza makes it a must-see for anyone traveling to Egypt.