After more than a decade in the making, Egypt’s Grand Egyptian Museum is finally opening its main galleries to the public. Starting Wednesday, 4,000 lucky visitors will get a sneak peek during a trial run. This colossal project near the iconic Giza pyramids has cost over $1 billion so far. The official grand opening date is still under wraps, but this trial run is a significant milestone. Excitement is in the air as Egypt showcases its rich history in a whole new light.
Inside the World’s Largest Archaeological Museum
The museum is unveiling 12 of its main galleries, each brimming with artifacts from ancient Egypt. These halls delve into various aspects like society, religion, and royal dynasties.
Visitors can expect to see:
- Artifacts from the Old Kingdom (2649-2130 BC)
- Treasures of the Middle Kingdom (2030-1650 BC)
- Relics of the New Kingdom (1550-1070 BC)
- Pieces from the Graeco-Roman period (332 BC – AD 395)
All galleries are organized by dynasty and historical order, each showcasing at least 15,000 artifacts.
This partial opening is more than just a preview; it’s a chance to fine-tune operations before the full launch. Officials hope to identify any overcrowded areas and improve visitor experience.
Visitors’ Reactions: A Glimpse into the Past
Tourists are already raving about the museum’s offerings.
Aude Porcedde, visiting from Canada, expressed her amazement at the exhibits. “Egyptian civilization is so important for the world to know about,” she said. Jorge Licano from Costa Rica shared similar sentiments, saying it’s been great learning from the locals.
Tech Meets History: Modern Twists in Ancient Displays
The museum isn’t just about old relics; it’s infused with advanced technology. Virtual reality and multimedia presentations bring ancient Egypt to life.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Virtual Reality | Explains the history of burial practices |
Multimedia Displays | Showcases the lives of ancient Egyptians |
Open-Style Halls | Organized by dynasty and historical order |
Eissa Zidan, director-general of preliminary restoration and antiquities transfer, emphasized the museum’s role in education. “It’s not just a place to display antiquities,” he said. “The museum is a gift to all the world.”
A Trial Run Before the Big Reveal
The official opening date remains a mystery, but the trial run is a significant step forward.
Al-Tayeb Abbas, assistant to the minister of antiquities, stated that this period will help prepare for the full opening. By hosting 4,000 visitors, they aim to understand operational challenges. This includes pinpointing overcrowded areas and improving overall visitor experience.
Parts of the site have been open for limited tours since late 2022. These tours were designed to test the museum’s operational readiness.