Inside Egypt's new $1 billion museum dedicated to its ancient civilisation • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
• Pharaoh Ramses II
• Grand Staircase
• Pyramids of Giza
• Tutankhamun's treasure
• Archaeological museum
• Artifacts
• Restoration labs

Grand Egyptian Museum: An Overview

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is introduced as a monumental new institution designed to welcome visitors with significant historical displays. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a "mighty statue of Pharaoh Ramses II." This statue's placement was so central that "the whole ceiling was put after this piece was put." Ramses II is highlighted as a ruler who "ruled Egypt for more than 66 years" and whose reign was characterized by "prosperity and power," making it a fitting introduction for museum guests.

Architectural Features and Scale

The museum's architecture is noted for its grandeur, featuring a "grand staircase which rises six stories high." As visitors ascend this staircase, they are "surrounded by statues of the rulers and kings of ancient Egypt," culminating in a "vantage point over the pyramids of Giza." The building's design, attributed to Irish architects, incorporates "triangles adorn the walls," echoing the iconic shape of the pyramids. The GEM is established as the "largest archaeological museum in the world," with construction costs exceeding "a billion."

Collection and Exhibition Scope

The GEM houses an extensive collection of "100,000 artifacts," with "half of which on display." These artifacts collectively narrate "7,000 years of Egyptian history." The museum offers visitors access to "12 vast galleries." A particularly anticipated section is "the complete treasure of Tutankhamun." The museum's curatorial approach aims to "change the story just to engage people to know more about Toot," extending beyond just the discovery of his tomb to include details about "his daily life, what what what he was doing in his life."

Research and Restoration Facilities

Adjacent to the exhibition spaces is a "high-tech research center." This center includes "19 restoration labs" where "experts prepare relics before they go on display." A significant aspect of these labs is that "many of them have never before been shown to the public," indicating the GEM's role in unveiling previously unseen historical items.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The Grand Egyptian Museum is presented as a world-leading archaeological institution, distinguished by its impressive scale, significant architectural elements, and vast collection of Egyptian artifacts spanning millennia. Its design, featuring iconic statues and a panoramic view of the Giza pyramids, aims to provide an immersive historical experience. The museum's commitment to showcasing the complete treasure of Tutankhamun and exploring his life, alongside its advanced research and restoration facilities, underscores its ambition to be a pivotal center for both public engagement with history and the preservation of ancient Egyptian heritage. The GEM's opening marks a significant moment for the display of previously unexhibited artifacts and a new narrative approach to engaging visitors with Egypt's rich past.