After over a decade of delays, including setbacks due to the pandemic, Egypt’s Grand Egyptian Museum has finally opened its doors – at least partially. As part of a pre-opening trial, 4,000 visitors will explore 12 grand galleries showcasing ancient Egyptian civilisation. This multi-billion-dollar project has been long anticipated, and while it’s not fully open yet, the museum is starting to show its treasures.
An Ancient World Unveiled in 12 Halls
The museum’s 12 open galleries span thousands of years of Egypt’s glorious past. From the Old Kingdom (2649–2130 BC) to the Graeco-Roman period (332 BC-AD 395), these halls offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Egyptian society, religion, and royal life. With over 15,000 artefacts displayed in each hall, visitors will step into different eras, including the New Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, and Late Period, with highlights like royal family statues and artefacts from the elite of the king’s court.
A Digital and Interactive Experience
To make the museum experience even more immersive, technology plays a pivotal role. Each hall is equipped with advanced multimedia presentations, and visitors can even experience virtual reality tours explaining burial customs and ancient Egyptian rituals. “The museum is not just a place to showcase artefacts but a destination for learning, especially for children,” said Eissa Zidan, museum director.
Limited Sections Already Open for Tours
Since late 2022, parts of the museum have been open for limited tours, helping museum staff fine-tune operations and visitor experience. A Canadian tourist, Aude Porcedde, shared her excitement: “Egyptian civilisation is key to understanding world history, and this museum brings it all to life.”
Costa Rican visitor Jorge Licano echoed the sentiment: “The depth of history here is astounding. It’s been an amazing learning experience, especially seeing how the locals connect with it.”
An Impressive Setting and Anticipation of What’s to Come
Among the museum’s many features, the grand staircase stands out. At six stories tall, it offers breathtaking views of the nearby pyramids. Other areas, like the commercial zone, have also opened, giving visitors a taste of what’s to come, including iconic monuments and sarcophagi. The museum’s Tutankhamun treasure collection, however, is still under wraps, with its opening slated for a future date.
Though the museum’s full-scale opening remains uncertain, the partial unveiling marks a major milestone. The world waits in anticipation to experience what will be the largest archaeological museum on Earth.
