CAIRO — The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to partially unveil its main galleries on Wednesday, featuring 12 exhibition halls dedicated to ancient Egyptian artifacts. This opening marks the beginning of a trial phase, with officials providing access to 4,000 visitors before the official inauguration date, which has yet to be determined, as stated by Al-Tayeb Abbas, assistant to the minister of antiquities.
This monumental museum, located near the iconic Giza Pyramids, has been under construction for over ten years and has surpassed $1 billion in costs. Its grand opening has faced multiple delays, owing to various factors including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to reports, the world’s largest archaeological museum is poised to exhibit more than 100,000 artifacts that highlight Egypt’s ancient treasures. Abbas explained that the ongoing trial run will allow the museum to identify operational challenges, such as determining areas that may become overcrowded during the opening.
The displays within the 12 galleries delve into various aspects of ancient Egyptian life, including societal, religious, and spiritual themes. The galleries are organized chronologically and by dynasty, with each hall expected to showcase a diverse array of at least 15,000 objects. Exhibits will cover numerous historical eras, including the Third Intermediate Period (circa 1070-664 B.C.), the Late Period (664-332 B.C.), the Graeco-Roman Period (332 B.C.-395 A.D.), the New Kingdom (1550-1070 B.C.), the Middle Kingdom (2030-1650 B.C.), and the Old Kingdom (2649-2130 B.C.). One particular hall will feature the “Elite of the King,” depicting royal family members and high-ranking officials associated with the military, religious institutions, and government.
Limited tours of certain sections of the museum have been available since late 2022 as part of an effort to enhance visitor experience and assess operational readiness. A Canadian visitor, Aude Porcedde, expressed her admiration for the museum, emphasizing the significance of Egyptian civilization for a global audience. Another tourist from Costa Rica, Jorge Licano, noted the enlightening experience of exploring ancient history firsthand and engaging with local guides.
Visitors can currently access the grand staircase, which soars six stories high and offers stunning views of the pyramids, along with a commercial area showcasing various monuments and artifacts, including sarcophagi and sculptures. Notably, the exquisite collection belonging to King Tutankhamun is scheduled for a later opening.
All exhibition halls feature cutting-edge technology with multimedia displays designed to educate guests about the lives of ancient Egyptians, including their rulers. Eissa Zidan, Director-General of the Preliminary Restoration and Antiquities Transfer at the museum, pointed out that one hall will incorporate virtual reality to portray the evolution of burial practices throughout ancient Egypt.
Zidan further explained that the mission of the museum extends beyond simply exhibiting artifacts; it aims to engage younger audiences in learning about ancient Egyptian history, positioning itself as a worldwide cultural gift. The facility promises an enriching experience for all visitors, encapsulating the rich heritage of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
