Egyptian Museum: A Historical Journey Through Time
The Egyptian Museum is one of the world’s most renowned museums, showcasing the incredible artifacts and history of ancient Egypt. Located in Cairo, Egypt, the museum is home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the famed Tutankhamun collection.
From mummies to jewelry, statues, and paintings, the Egyptian Museum is a treasure trove of history and culture. Visitors to the museum can explore the ancient history of Egypt, learn about the fascinating artefacts, and gain a deeper understanding of an ancient civilization.
History of the Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum was established in 1858 by Auguste Mariette, a French Egyptologist. After discovering the remains of a temple at the Saqqara pyramid complex, Mariette was appointed director of the newly founded Egyptian Antiquities Service.
Mariette was responsible for collecting and preserving the artifacts discovered in the temple, which would later become the foundation of the Egyptian Museum’s collection.
In 1891, the museum was moved to its current location in Cairo, and its name was changed to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Since then, the museum has grown to become one of the largest museums in the world, housing over 120,000 ancient artifacts from the Pharaonic period.
Highlights of the Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Egypt. Here are some of the highlights of the museum:
Tutankhamun Collection
The Tutankhamun collection is one of the most popular exhibits in the museum. The artifacts in the collection were discovered in 1922 by the British archaeologist Howard Carter. The collection includes Tutankhamun’s famous golden death mask, jewelry, and statues.
Mummies
The museum houses over 30 mummies of ancient Pharaohs and other prominent figures from the Pharaonic period. Visitors can learn about the ancient mummification process and gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Egyptians’ belief in the afterlife.
Statues and Paintings
The museum is home to a vast collection of statues and paintings from the Pharaonic period. From sculptures of gods and goddesses to paintings depicting life in ancient Egypt, the statues and paintings provide a fascinating insight into the culture and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians.
Visiting the Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is open to the public daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except for Fridays and public holidays. The museum is located in the center of Cairo and can be reached via taxi or public transportation. Admission to the museum is free for children under the age of 6, and adults can purchase tickets for a nominal fee.
The museum also offers guided tours for visitors who wish to explore the museum with a knowledgeable guide. Tours are available in English, French, and Spanish, and tickets can be purchased online or at the museum.
Conclusion
The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Egypt. From the Tutankhamun collection to mummies, statues, and paintings, the museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and provides visitors with a unique insight into the history and culture of the ancient Egyptians.