A Journey Through Time- Exploring the Egyptian Museum in Cairo

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo, also known as the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, is a true treasure trove of ancient Egyptian artifacts. It is the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East and boasts the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world, housing over 170,000 objects.

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo boasts a rich history that goes hand in hand with the rise of Egyptology as a scientific discipline. The story begins in the mid-19th century, a time when rampant looting of ancient Egyptian artifacts threatened the country’s cultural heritage. Recognizing this danger, Mohamed Ali, the ruler of Egypt at the time, issued a decree in 1835 to establish the very first Egyptian museum.

This initial museum was a modest affair, housed in a building near Ezbekieh Garden in Cairo. However, the collection quickly grew, prompting a move to the Cairo Citadel in the 1860s. As the number of artifacts continued to rise, the need for a dedicated and spacious museum became clear.

An international design competition was launched in 1895, and the winning design came from French architect Marcel Dourgnon. Construction began in 1897 on a grand scale in the heart of Cairo’s bustling Tahrir Square. The building, completed in 1902, reflected the Neoclassical style popular at the time, a fitting tribute to the grandeur of ancient Egypt. The Egyptian Museum, as we know it today, officially opened its doors that same year.

The museum’s early years were marked by significant acquisitions, including the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922 by Howard Carter. This incredible find, with its treasures untouched for millennia, solidified the museum’s position as the premier repository of Pharaonic antiquities. Over the decades, the collection continued to expand through further excavations and donations, solidifying the museum’s reputation as a global center for the study of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Today, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the pharaohs. While the building undergoes renovations to accommodate the vast collection and improve visitor experience, its role in preserving and showcasing ancient Egyptian culture remains paramount.

a group of carved wooden figures in a display case

a room with egyptian paintings on the walls

Ticket prices to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo depend on your nationality:

Egyptians and Arab Citizens: Prices are significantly lower for these groups, but the exact cost isn’t publicly available online.
Other Nationalities:
- Adult (21+ years old): 1200 Egyptian Pounds (EGP)
- Youth (4 – 21 years old): 750 EGP
- Student (valid up to 30 years old with valid ID): 750 EGP

Opening Hours:

The museum is generally open from Sunday to Thursday: 9 AM to 6 PM.
Last ticket sales happen at 4 PM.
On Fridays and Saturdays, extended hours are offered: 9 AM to 10 PM.
The last ticket sale for these extended hours is at 7:30 PM.

Recommendations:

Since there’s no online ticketing option, plan to arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
Check the official museum website (https://egyptianmuseumcairo.eg/) closer to your visit date for any updates on ticketing or opening hours, as renovations might cause temporary changes.

Tips on how to get there:

By car: The museum is located in the heart of Cairo, so it is easily accessible by car. However, parking can be difficult, so it is recommended to take a taxi or use public transportation.

By public transportation: The Cairo Metro has a stop near the museum, making it a convenient way to get there. You can also take a bus or taxi.

By plane: Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the main airport in Cairo. From the airport, you can take a taxi or Uber to the museum.

Whether you’re a seasoned Egyptologist or a curious first-timer, the Egyptian Museum offers an unparalleled journey through millennia of civilization. With its recently undertaken renovations promising a more immersive experience, a visit to this iconic museum ensures an unforgettable encounter with the awe-inspiring pharaohs and the captivating story of ancient Egypt.