Cairo Egyptian Museum

Explore The Egyptian Museum in Cairo

  • Nagwa
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20 nov

Introduction

Towering in the heart of Cairo's Tahrir Square, Egypt's Egyptian Museum is one of the world's greatest repositories of ancient civilization. Home to more than 120,000 objects, this gargantuan museum inspires reverence in anyone fascinated by ancient Egypt's history and culture. Whether traveling to Cairo for the first time or returning to appreciate Egypt's rich heritage anew, this museum promises a journey through millennia of pharaonic glory.

The History of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo

Established in 1902, the Egyptian Museum is the Middle East's oldest archaeological museum. Its neoclassical facade and two-story structure, designed by French architect Marcel Dourgnon, echoes early 20th-century European museum design. Over the decades, it has grown as the guardian of Egypt's wealthiest treasures, revealing the pharaohs' world in a way unequalled.

With the new opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, some of its collections have been relocated, yet the Cairo Museum remains iconic. It remains to contain countless priceless artifacts and still attracts scholars, visitors, and history enthusiasts worldwide.

What to Expect Inside the Museum

When you enter, you'll feel as if you're entering a time capsule. The museum is divided chronologically, with areas of Prehistoric Egypt, the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, New Kingdom, and Greco-Roman times. Here are some of the highlights of what you'll find:

1. The Treasures of Tutankhamun
Somewhat probably the most famous exhibit in the museum is the Tutankhamun Collection, discovered by Howard Carter in 1922 in the Valley of the Kings. His famous golden funerary mask, beautiful jewelry, throne, and chariots are all displayed. These items provide invaluable insights into the boy king's existence and passing and are one of the museum's best-loved parts.

2. Royal Mummies Room
Another standout is the Royal Mummies Hall, where the mummified remains of some of Egypt's most historic pharaohs, including Ramses II, Seti I, and Queen Hatshepsut, are on display. It is an additional fee to enter this room, but it's well worth the cost for anyone who wants to meet in person some of Egypt's bygone leaders.

3. Statues and Sarcophagi
From the colossus of Amenhotep III to the finely carved sarcophagi of noblemen, the museum’s statues and stone works showcase the sophistication and artistry of ancient Egyptian craftsmen. Don't miss the massive pink granite statue of Khafre, the builder of the second pyramid at Giza.

Tips for Visiting the Egyptian Museum

Go early morning: To avoid the crowds and enjoy the lovely morning time, try to go early when it opens.

Take a guided tour or join a Cairo city tour for more information.

Flash photography is allowed in most of the museum but not permitted.

Wear comfortable shoes—there is so much walking to do and the museum is enormous.

Spend 2 to 3 hours at least, depending on if you are history oriented.

Attractions Close By You Can Pair Up

The Egyptian Museum is located in the center of Downtown Cairo, so it is easy to go to other famous attractions nearby:

Stroll through Tahrir Square, the hub of recent Egyptian history.

Take a Nile felucca ride in Cairo

Explore the mosques and bazaars of Islamic Cairo, such as Al-Muizz Street.

Why You Can't Miss the Egyptian Museum

The Cairo Egyptian Museum is not a building with old things in it—it's a time machine. It brings history to life of a civilization that shaped human history. For anyone interested in learning about Egypt other than the Pyramids, this museum is not an option. It's not an optional visit on your tour of Cairo—it's an experience forever through the heart of Egypt.

Plan Your Visit with Deluxe Tours

If you plan to add the Egyptian Museum to your itinerary, Deluxe Tours offers Cairo day tours that are guided and include skip-the-line tickets as well as transport. Personalize your experience and have it paired with other nearby landmarks for a day tour of culture.

Conclusion

Whether your passion is for the glory of Tutankhamun's treasures, the drama of ancient mummies, or Egyptian art and architecture on a grand scale, the Cairo Egyptian Museum is a requirement. Its storied past and vast collections earn it the status of crown jewel in the capital of Egypt.

FAQ

Check Asked Questions

Discover now our answers to the most common questions that may come to your mind about tourism and trips to Egypt

What types of Tours do luxury Tours offer in Egypt and Jordan

Cultural, historical, adventure, and custom customized trips are just a few of the tours that Deluxe trips offer in Egypt and Jordan.

What are the must- visit attractions in Egypt and jordan with Deluxe tours?

The Dead Sea, Petra in Jordan, the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor's historic temples, and many other famous sites can be expected to be explored with Deluxe Tours.
 

What is included in Deluxe tour's Egypt and Jordan tour Packages?

offer a hassle-free holiday, Deluxe Tours' packages generally include lodging, transport, meals, guided tours with experienced local experts, and entry fees to attractions.
 

What is the best month to visit Egypt and Jordan?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the finest weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities, making those months the best times to visit Egypt and Jordan.
 

How many days do you need in Egypt and Jordan?

These two countries are close by, only a 1.5-hour flight apart, and when combined, offer a variety of distinctive experiences. We advise you to spend at least 12 days visiting both countries for a truly unforgettable experience
 

What are some recommended activities to combine with eclipse viewing in Egypt?

Combining the eclipse viewing with visits to historic sites like the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and a Nile River cruise are highly recommended.

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