The Grand Egyptian Museum, located on the outskirts of Cairo, has been a highly anticipated and long-delayed project that aims to showcase ancient Egyptian artifacts. Unlike the nearby Giza pyramids, its construction has faced numerous challenges, including funding issues, logistical difficulties, and interruptions from global events, taking over 20 years to date.
Since its initial announcement in 2012, various planned openings have failed to materialize, leading to frustrations from potential visitors. Travelers have expressed disappointment over repeated cancellations of their plans to visit the museum, with comments highlighting the prolonged wait for its completion.
As of mid-February, 11 of the 12 main exhibition galleries were accessible, along with the main entrance hall, but the key Tutankhamun galleries, which will feature more than 5,000 artifacts, remained closed. These sections are expected to open in the summer, with an official ceremony scheduled for July 3.
Despite its incomplete status, the museum's scale and views are impressive. Visitors are greeted by a massive statue of Ramses II upon entry, and the Grand Staircase offers views of the Giza pyramids. The galleries present a wide range of artifacts from ancient Egypt, organized chronologically and thematically, showcasing items that connect visitors directly with the past.
The Grand Egyptian Museum joins two other significant institutions in Cairo: the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, both of which house priceless collections. While the Egyptian Museum has begun transferring artifacts to the new site, the Grand Egyptian Museum is expected to become a leading destination for both tourists and scholars of ancient Egyptian history.
Initially proposed in 1992 by former President Hosni Mubarak, the museum's development has been marked by substantial delays due to various socio-economic and global factors. However, visitors now seem ready to overlook the lengthy wait as they explore the museum's rich collection and stunning architecture.