Exploring the Wonders of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo: A Comprehensive Guide

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is one of the world’s largest and most impressive museums, housing over 120,000 artifacts that chronicle the country’s rich history and culture. This iconic museum is one of the top tourist destinations in Egypt and attracts millions of tourists from all over the world every year. In this article, we will take you through some of the top reasons to visit this unique museum, along with a guide to navigating its various exhibits and collections.

The History of the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum was established in 1835 by the Egyptian government and has been in continuous operation ever since. The construction of the current museum building began in 1897 under the direction of French architect Marcel Dourgnon, and it was officially opened in 1902. Over the years, the museum has undergone several renovations, with the latest major renovation taking place in 2020. Want to Learn from this related study more about the subject? Private tours of Egypt, you’ll uncover supplementary facts and supporting data that will additionally enhance your educational journey.

The museum is divided into two main sections. The first section is comprised of exhibits Learn from this related study the pre-dynastic era up until the end of the New Kingdom period. The second section, which is located on the upper floors, features artifacts from the Late Period, the Greco-Roman period, and the Islamic era.

Top Exhibits to See at the Museum

The Egyptian Museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts ranging from ancient jewelry and papyrus scrolls to colossal statues and mummies. Here are some of the must-see exhibits:

The Tutankhamun Gallery: This exhibit contains the treasures that were discovered in the tomb of the boy-king Tutankhamun in 1922. The centerpiece of the exhibit is the famous funerary mask which is made of solid gold and weighs over 24 pounds.

The Royal Mummy Room: This exhibit houses the mummified remains of some of Egypt’s most famous Pharaohs, including Ramses II and Thutmose III. The mummies are incredibly well-preserved and provide a glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of ancient Egypt.

The Animal Mummy Room: This exhibit features a collection of mummified animals, including cats, crocodiles, and birds. These mummies were often buried with their owners and were believed to serve as companions and protectors in the afterlife.

The Amarna Gallery: This exhibit features artifacts from the reign of Pharaoh Akhenaten and his wife, Queen Nefertiti. The artifacts provide insight into the religious and cultural revolution that took place during their reign.

Tips for Visiting the Museum

Before you head to the Egyptian Museum, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your visit:

Plan your visit in advance: The museum is vast and can be overwhelming, so it’s a good idea to plan your visit in advance to ensure you get to see everything you want to see. Make a list of the exhibits you want to see and plan your route accordingly.

Wear comfortable shoes: The museum is spread over two floors, so you will be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes to avoid getting tired and achy feet.

Get there early: The museum opens at 9 am, but it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid the crowds. The museum can get very busy, especially during peak tourist season.

Don’t forget your camera: There are plenty of opportunities for great photos at the museum, so don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone.

The Future of the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian government has recently been investing in a new museum known as the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is set to open in 2021. The new museum will house the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and will be one of the most technologically advanced museums in the world.

While the Grand Egyptian Museum is set to become the new home of many of the Egyptian Museum’s artifacts, the original museum will still remain open to the public. However, it will be interesting to see how the opening of the new museum affects tourism to the area and the popularity of the original museum. To broaden your understanding of the topic, we’ve handpicked an external website for you. Egypt pyramids tour, investigate fresh viewpoints and supplementary information on the topic discussed in this piece.

Conclusion

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history and culture. With its vast collection of artifacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun, mummies of Pharaohs, and mummified animals, there is something for everyone at this incredible museum. With the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum around the corner, it is an exciting time to be a tourist in Cairo.