Grand Egyptian Museum is a large archaeological museum located on the Giza Plateau in Cairo, Egypt. It is the largest museum of its kind in the world, housing more than 50,000 artifacts from the ancient Egyptian civilization. The museum was inaugurated in 2020 and is expected to become one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.
History
The idea of a Grand Egyptian Museum was first proposed in the early 1900s by British Egyptologist and archaeologist Flinders Petrie. In 1952, the government of Egypt approved the project, and construction began in 1979. The museum was designed by the Egyptian architect Mahmoud al-Hakim and is located near the Giza pyramids and the Great Sphinx.
Features
The museum covers an area of nearly 120 acres and is designed to display the rich cultural heritage of ancient Egypt. The museum houses more than 50,000 artifacts, including ancient statues, jewelry, and other archaeological objects. It also features an interactive digital database, allowing visitors to explore the history of ancient Egypt. Additionally, the museum includes a 3D cinema, an education center, and a café.
Collections
The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including sculptures, jewelry, pottery, and other archaeological objects. Some of the most important artifacts include the Treasures of Tutankhamun, the Rosetta Stone, and the Statue of Sekhmet. Additionally, the museum houses the Papyrus of Ani, the Book of the Dead, and the Stela of Amenhotep III.
Exhibitions
The museum features a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions, including the Egyptian Mummies exhibition, which displays the remains of ancient Egyptians and explains the mummification process. Additionally, the museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, such as the Tomb of Tutankhamun, which allows visitors to explore the tomb and discover its secrets. The museum also features a Sphinx Gallery, which showcases the history and mythology of the Great Sphinx.
Tours
The museum offers a variety of guided tours, including a Grand Tour, which takes visitors through the main galleries of the museum. Additionally, the museum offers a Behind the Scenes Tour, which allows visitors to explore the restoration and conservation labs, as well as the storage areas. The museum also offers a Kids Tour, which is designed for children and includes interactive activities and games.
Events
The museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and art exhibitions. Additionally, the museum organizes a variety of educational programs, such as the Explorers Club, which offers interactive activities and games for children. The museum also hosts a variety of special events, such as the Grand Opening Celebration and the Egyptian Cultural Festival.