The museum, which will feature more than 100,000 ancient artifacts, has had its launch delayed multiple times due to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open 12 exhibit halls showcasing ancient Egyptian history this week, in a trial run ahead of its official opening, officials announced on Tuesday. This long-awaited project has already cost over $1 billion and has been under construction for more than a decade. The trial will allow 4,000 visitors per day, according to Al-Tayeb Abbas, assistant to the minister of antiquities.
The museum, which will feature more than 100,000 artifacts, has had its launch delayed multiple times due to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Since 2022, limited tours have been offered to test the museum’s operations. The current trial aims to identify any overcrowding or operational issues before the full opening.
The 12 halls, arranged chronologically and by dynasty, will explore themes like society, religion, and doctrine in ancient Egypt. Among the eras covered will be the Third Intermediate Period, Late Period, Graeco-Roman Period, New Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, and Old Kingdom. One hall will focus on statues of royal elites and high-ranking officials from the army, priesthood, and government.