The Information and Decision Support Center at the Cabinet confirmed that the Grand Egyptian Museum spans an area exceeding 300,000 square meters, housing exhibition halls larger than those in many of the world's major museums.
A Modern Marvel in Egypt
The Grand Egyptian Museum is considered one of Egypt's most significant modern projects. It aims to become the foremost destination for enthusiasts of ancient Egyptian civilization, showcasing a rich historical narrative unparalleled worldwide.
A Global Cultural and Entertainment Landmark
The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as an integrated global cultural and entertainment landmark. It boasts rare artifacts and unique royal treasures, including the famous treasures of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, displayed in their entirety for the first time since the tomb's discovery in 1922. The museum exhibits artifacts from the pre-dynastic period to the Greco-Roman era, offering a stunning display that narrates Egypt's history across millennia.
The museum also includes dedicated spaces for cultural activities and various events, such as a children's museum, an educational center, temporary exhibition halls, and a cinema, along with a conference center.
Amenities and Visitor Experience
The museum features commercial zones with shops, cafeterias, and restaurants, in addition to gardens and parks that provide visitors with a recreational atmosphere.
Currently, the museum receives 4,000 visitors daily during its trial opening phase, aimed at evaluating its readiness to welcome the public and identifying areas for improvement.
### Tutankhamun's Treasures at the Heart of the Museum
One of the museum's most prominent attractions is the Hall of King Tutankhamun, which houses 5,390 unique artifacts. Many of these items are being displayed for the first time.
A Long Journey of Construction
The idea of establishing the Grand Egyptian Museum dates back to the 1990s, with its foundation stone laid in 2002. Construction began in 2005 at a strategic site overlooking the Giza Pyramids. The architectural design, created by Ireland's Heneghan Peng architects, won an international competition. The design reflects sunlight streaming from the peaks of the three pyramids into a conical mass.
In 2010, the largest restoration center in the Middle East was inaugurated as part of this grand project to preserve and maintain artifacts.
Recent Developments
Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly recently announced the final touches on the Grand Egyptian Museum, noting that the official opening date will depend on directives from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.
Dr. Madbouly highlighted Egypt's efforts in organizing an opening event worthy of this global landmark, similar to other grand events previously held. He also emphasized the substantial infrastructure developments surrounding the museum, including an extensive road network to facilitate access to the area.
During his visit to the museum, Dr. Madbouly stated: "We ensured harmony and integration between the museum and its surroundings through a network of roads and axes, particularly connecting it to Cairo and Sphinx airports, as well as linking it to the Giza Plateau. This enhances the area's appeal as a global tourist hotspot while improving the visual aesthetics and creating a cultural shift that highlights the beauty of the museum and its surroundings."
The visit was part of a tour to oversee the final stages of the museum and its surrounding areas in preparation for its upcoming opening. Dr. Madbouly described the museum as a global cultural edifice that presents a comprehensive summary of Egypt's ancient civilization and treasures in one place.
Museum Governance and Upcoming Plans
Tourism and Antiquities Minister Ahmed Issa chaired the first meeting of the Grand Egyptian Museum's board of trustees following the appointment of its first CEO. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities headquarters in the New Administrative Capital, included discussions on the museum's official opening dates, aligning with the current trial operation of its main halls.
Additionally, the meeting approved various ticket exemptions and discounts and agreed to accept special visit requests for the restoration and preservation center and the Khufu Ship Pavilion. These options will be available to interested visitors starting February.
