Home Arrow News Arrow Grand Egyptian Museum | All you need to know

Grand Egyptian Museum | All you need to know

Author Name By Azure Lee | Update on: Oct 17, 2024

Nestled on the outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, stands an architectural marvel that embodies millennia of history—the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Set against the backdrop of the Giza Pyramids, this monumental edifice is not just a repository of ancient artifacts but a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Egypt. 

With its grandeur and significance, the GEM stands as a beacon, inviting visitors from all over the world to explore the mystique and grandeur of Egypt.

Where is the Grand Egyptian Museum?

About 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the Giza pyramid complex, the Grand Egyptian Museum, also called the Giza Museum, is an archaeological museum currently under construction. It will house over 100,000 artifacts from ancient Egyptian civilization, including the entire Tutankhamun collection, many of which will be on display for the first time.

Constructed as part of a new master plan for the Giza Plateau known as "Giza 2030," it will have 81,000 m2 (872,000 sq ft) of floor space, making it the largest archeological museum in the world.

The Grand Egyptian Museum is an archaeological museum currently under construction

The Grand Egyptian Museum is an archaeological museum currently under construction

History about The Grand Egyptian Museum

The history of the Grand Egyptian Museum is as fascinating as the artifacts it houses. The idea for this monumental museum was conceived in the early 1990s to address the need for a larger, more modern space to showcase Egypt's incredible archaeological wealth.

Construction began in 2002, and the site is strategically located near the Giza Pyramids. Initially slated for completion in 2015, the project faced several delays due to various reasons, including financial constraints and the enormity of the endeavor.

What makes the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza unique?

The Grand Egyptian Museum isn't merely a typical museum; it stands as a historical landmark itself. Situated near the Pyramids of Giza, it boasts the distinction of being the largest museum globally focused on a sole civilization.

The museum's design combines elements of ancient and contemporary styles, symbolizing the shift from the Pharaonic era to the present. The museum connects its contents to their historical environment through its panoramic glass front, which offers a continuous view of the pyramids.

The layout of the museum is designed in chronological order. It begins in the predynastic period, continues through the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms, and finally reaches the Greco-Roman period.

Another aspect of the museum's services is its educational programs and seminars, which are designed to educate visitors of all ages by providing them with a deeper look at Egyptian culture, the arts, and the sciences.

In addition to its many attractions, the Grand Egyptian Museum is a one-of-a-kind cultural and educational complex with conference facilities, gardens that resemble ancient Egypt, conservation labs, and a children's museum.

The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as a historical landmark itself

The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as a historical landmark itself

The Grand Egyptian Museum Opening Date

Many visitors wonder many questions, like "Is the Grand Egyptian Museum open?" "When is the Grand Egyptian Museum open?" and so on. Finally, despite numerous delays caused by a variety of factors, The Grand Egyptian Museum will open soon, by February 2024 at the latest.

The Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, who stated in an interview that he "anticipates" the opening to take place between October 2023 and February 2024, has verified this.

Grand Egyptian Museum ticket price

The Grand Egyptian Museum's opening and closing times, as well as ticket costs, are subject to change due to fluctuations in the volume of visitors and special events. For the most current and accurate information, visit the official website or get in touch with the museum directly.

The museum is usually open seven days a week, with extended hours on some days; visitors are advised to check in advance as special hours may apply to specific exhibits or events.

Admission fees fluctuate based on factors like the visitor's age, nationality, and the type of access (general entry or access to special exhibits). Discounts are commonly available for students, seniors, and group visits. Moreover, free entry might be granted to children below a specific age and individuals with disabilities.

Learn Modern Technology in the Grand Egyptian Museum

Through interactive activities and multimedia exhibitions, the Grand Egyptian Museum uses contemporary technology to bring ancient history to life and make the visitation experience more enjoyable. An immersive and captivating exploration of ancient Egypt is guaranteed.

The museum uses sophisticated lighting systems to illuminate its exhibits, emphasizing the minute details of items and producing a visually striking experience. In certain areas, lighting is used to replicate different times of the day, bringing a touch of realism to the exhibits. 

Throughout the museum are interactive displays that let visitors examine artifacts in more detail. Touch screens let visitors to view 3D models from different perspectives, zoom in on high-resolution photographs, and access detailed information on the artifacts.  

The Grand Egyptian Museum is nestled on the outskirts of Cairo

The Grand Egyptian Museum is nestled on the outskirts of Cairo

Virtual reality (VR) experiences at GEM

Another cutting-edge offering at the Grand Egyptian Museum is virtual reality (VR) experiences, which allow guests to "step into" a virtual reconstruction of a tomb, explore a 3D model of the Sphinx, or take a virtual boat ride on the Nile. It is an exciting and new way to experience ancient Egypt.

To improve the self-guided tour experience, augmented reality (AR) guides are also offered. Using AR technology, guests can point their devices at an artifact to view animations, hear stories, or discover more about the significance and history of the object.

The museum's mobile application serves as a convenient resource, providing audio guides, interactive maps, and supplementary details about the displays. It enables visitors to schedule their visits, purchase tickets, and stay informed about upcoming events and workshops.

Moreover, the Grand Egyptian Museum's website features a digital archive, enabling global audiences to virtually delve into the museum's artifacts. This online platform holds significant educational value, granting students and researchers worldwide access to the extensive collection for study and exploration.

Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum today!

In summary, the Grand Egyptian Museum provides an unparalleled experience exploring Egypt's rich cultural legacy. With its extensive collection of artifacts, creative technological applications, and inclusive educational initiatives, the museum genuinely serves as a link between the age of the pyramids and contemporary urban life. For this reason, it is an indispensable stop for anyone interested in history, culture, or just learning about the evolution of humankind.

To embark on this journey, travelers need an Egypt eVisa. Through Egypt Immigration Services, you can quickly and swiftly apply for an online visa without visiting the embassy or consulate. This not only prepares you for the trip but also ensures you experience every facet of this country comfortably and with utmost fascination. 

Let the Grand Egyptian Museum open the doors to an extraordinary ancient world for you, and let us assist you in starting this journey seamlessly.

Related Articles

View more Arrow
COOKIE SETTINGS