London’s Egypt Museum is one of the most renowned museums in the world. Located in the heart of the British capital, it is home to an incredible collection of artifacts and relics from ancient Egypt. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of one of the most fascinating ancient civilizations.
History of the Museum
The museum was founded in 1802 by the British Museum as part of its commitment to the advancement of knowledge and the preservation of the cultural heritage of Egypt. It was the first museum dedicated to the study of ancient Egypt, and it remains one of the largest and most important museums of its kind in the world.
Collections
The museum houses a wide range of artifacts and relics from ancient Egypt, including statues, mummies, sarcophagi, jewelry, and much more. The collection is divided into five main sections:
- The Old Kingdom, which includes artifacts from the period from 3100 BCE to 2040 BCE.
- The Middle Kingdom, which includes artifacts from the period from 2040 BCE to 1640 BCE.
- The New Kingdom, which includes artifacts from the period from 1640 BCE to 1075 BCE.
- The Late Period, which includes artifacts from the period from 1075 BCE to 332 BCE.
- The Greco-Roman Period, which includes artifacts from the period from 332 BCE to 395 CE.
Exhibitions
The museum hosts a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities. The museum also has a number of permanent exhibitions, including the Rosetta Stone, which was discovered in 1799 and is the key to understanding ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.
The Rosetta Stone
The Rosetta Stone is a black basalt slab inscribed with three versions of a decree issued at Memphis in 196 BCE. The stone is inscribed in hieroglyphs, demotic script, and ancient Greek, making it the key to understanding ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. The stone is now on permanent display in the museum and is one of the most popular exhibits.
Visiting the Museum
The museum is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm, with extended hours on Thursday and Friday. Admission is free, but a donation is suggested. There is a café and a gift shop onsite, as well as a range of educational resources and activities.
The London’s Egypt Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Egypt. With its incredible collection of artifacts and relics, it is an unmissable experience for anyone visiting London.