After twenty years of planning and construction, Egypt is finally unveiling the Grand Egyptian Museum. Located near the iconic Giza Pyramids, this billion-dollar masterpiece opens its doors to the public on Saturday. The museum promises to become the world’s largest cultural institution dedicated to a single civilisation, celebrating more than 5,000 years of Egyptian history.
Designed by Heneghan Peng Architects, the vast structure features a striking triangular façade that mirrors the nearby pyramids. Its modern design blends with ancient heritage, symbolising Egypt’s timeless identity and its vision for cultural revival.
Home to 50,000 Ancient Artefacts
The Grand Egyptian Museum will exhibit over 50,000 artefacts, including treasures from different eras of Egyptian civilisation. Many pieces have been relocated from the old Egyptian Museum in Cairo’s Tahrir Square, while others were discovered in recent archaeological excavations.
Visitors will enter through a grand atrium featuring the colossal statue of Pharaoh Ramesses the Great. This 11-metre granite figure, once displayed in central Cairo, now greets guests as a symbol of ancient power and artistic excellence.
A six-story staircase lined with statues leads to the main galleries, where artefacts are arranged by period and theme. Advanced multimedia installations and mixed-reality features help visitors connect with Egypt’s ancient world through modern technology.
The Complete Tutankhamun Collection
For the first time in history, the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures will be displayed in one place. The exhibit features 5,000 objects, including the young pharaoh’s golden mask, chariots, thrones, and funeral beds. These artefacts have undergone extensive restoration to preserve their intricate craftsmanship and historical value.
Another remarkable highlight is the solar boat of King Khufu, the builder of the Great Pyramid. This 43-metre-long wooden vessel, dating back 4,600 years, was carefully transferred to the museum using advanced transport technology.
A Boost for Egypt’s Tourism and Economy
Egypt’s government views the museum as a key pillar for boosting tourism, a major source of foreign currency. The new facility is expected to attract between 15,000 and 20,000 visitors daily. In 2024, Egypt welcomed a record 15.7 million tourists, and the country aims to double that number by 2032.
The area surrounding the museum has been transformed to accommodate the expected influx. New roads, a metro station, and the nearby Sphinx International Airport will make access easier for local and international visitors.
Blending Heritage with Innovation
Beyond preserving artefacts, the Grand Egyptian Museum represents Egypt’s broader vision of blending tradition with technology. Interactive exhibits and digital storytelling make history accessible to younger generations. As museum officials note, the approach speaks the “language of today,” ensuring that ancient Egypt continues to inspire the modern world.
With its long-awaited opening, the Grand Egyptian Museum stands not only as a monument to the past but also as a symbol of Egypt’s cultural renaissance and future ambitions.
