Cairo National Museum is the largest and most important museum in Egypt, located in Cairo. It houses a huge collection of ancient artifacts, including many from the ancient Pharaohs. The museum is located on the north bank of the Nile River, in the heart of Cairo’s historical district. It was founded in 1858 and is home to more than 120,000 artifacts, including mummies, statues, jewelry, and papyrus scrolls.
History of Cairo National Museum
The museum was established in 1858 by Auguste Mariette, a French Egyptologist, as part of his work to preserve and document the ancient Egyptian culture. Mariette was appointed by the Egyptian government as the first director of the museum. The museum’s original collection was primarily from the Pharaonic period, and the collection has grown since then to include artifacts from other periods, such as the Coptic and Islamic eras.
Collections
The museum houses a large collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt. The most famous of these is the collection of mummies, which includes mummies of both kings and commoners. The museum also has a large collection of statues, jewelry, and other artifacts from the ancient period. There is also a collection of papyrus scrolls, which are documents written on thin sheets of papyrus.
Exhibitions
The museum hosts several permanent and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. The permanent exhibitions include the Egyptian Collection, which showcases artifacts from ancient Egypt, and the Islamic Collection, which showcases artifacts from the Islamic period. The temporary exhibitions include special exhibitions, such as the annual Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs exhibition.
Special Events
The museum also hosts several special events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and seminars. These events are designed to educate visitors about the history and culture of Egypt. There are also special events for children, such as workshops and lectures on ancient Egypt and the history of the museum.
Visiting the Museum
The Cairo National Museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission is free, but there is a fee for certain special exhibitions and events. Visitors are encouraged to bring a camera, as photography is allowed in the museum.
Tips for Visiting the Museum
- Plan your visit in advance and make sure to bring a camera.
- Dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.
- Be sure to check out the special exhibitions and events.
- Take your time and explore the museum at your own pace.
- Bring a guidebook or map to help you navigate the museum.
The Cairo National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the history and culture of ancient Egypt. With its large collection of artifacts, special exhibitions, and special events, it is an ideal destination for history buffs and those looking to explore the ancient culture of Egypt.