Cairo's Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo
landmark in the history of Egyptology. The idea of preserving Egypt’s antiquities began during the era of Muhammad Ali Pasha (1805–1848), when he recognized the danger of artifacts leaving the country. He issued a decree establishing Egypt’s first antiquities institution near El-Ezbekia Garden. Displays were organized by Hakikan Effendi and supervised by Youssef Diaa Effendi, with the help of scholar Rifa’a al-Tahtawi, who played a vital role in regulating excavations and preventing the smuggling of monuments.

These early efforts laid the foundation for modern archaeology in Egypt and eventually led to the establishment of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir.
The French architect Marcel Dourgnon was responsible for the design of the building and it was completed in 1902, thus making the building itself a historical treasure.

Currently the museum contains a vast number of artefacts (in tens of thousands) that cover the times from pre-dynastic period to the Greco-Roman era. The museum in Tahrir still keeps important statues, coffins, papyri, jewellery and everyday objects showcasing the development of Ancient Egyptian civilization although some major collections such as the full treasures of Tutankhamun and the Royal Mummies have been moved to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).

Amongst the famous pieces that are still shown are the Menkaure Triads from Giza, Old Kingdom statues, funerary artefacts and artistic treasures from different dynasties. These artifacts still provide a crucial insight into the mastery, the religion, and the everyday life of the ancient Egyptians.

The Egyptian Museum is still a stop not to be missed on a day tour of Cairo as it allows visitors to experience a traditional museum which is historically significant. The halls of the museum are filled with non-replaceable artefacts that offer a glimpse into the evolution of Egyptology as a scientific discipline. The museum also provides family-friendly and wheelchair accessible visits.

The GEM's relocation of some collections did not diminish the Egyptian Museum's status as a cultural heritage cornerstone and an indispensable source of information regarding the past that researchers, students and enthusiasts can certainly benefit from.

The ticket prices are dependent on the visitor category as well as the optional access to special exhibits. There are discounted tickets for children and free admission for children aged six and below. The museum hours are daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.