Grand Egyptian Museum Opens After Two Decades of Anticipation

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) officially opened its doors on Saturday, marking the culmination of a **20-year** journey and a **$1 billion** (€862 million) investment in Egypt’s cultural heritage. Located adjacent to the Pyramids of Giza, the GEM is the world’s largest museum dedicated to an ancient civilization. It showcases **50,000 artifacts**, including the entire collection of treasures from the tomb of **King Tutankhamun**, many of which are on display for the first time.

In a statement on X, President **Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi** hailed the GEM as “an exceptional event in the history of human culture and civilization.” He emphasized that the museum symbolizes the synergy between the ancient Egyptians’ genius and the modern Egyptian spirit. Designed to attract **5 million visitors annually**, the GEM is expected to significantly boost Egypt’s economy, according to **Sir Mohamed Mansour**, a prominent businessman and member of the museum’s board of trustees.

Architectural Marvel and Cultural Significance

The museum’s design incorporates triangular motifs that echo the nearby pyramids. Its striking glass façade and slanting roof draw a direct line to these ancient structures, creating a seamless blend of history and modern architecture. Visitors enter through an impressive six-story staircase adorned with ancient statues, leading them to the main galleries that overlook the iconic pyramids.

In addition to exhibition spaces, the GEM features a conference centre, a library, educational facilities, a children’s museum, shops, and restaurants, making it a comprehensive cultural hub. While the museum partially opened last year, its official inauguration had been delayed due to various global events.

The GEM houses numerous priceless artifacts, including a granite colossus of **Ramses the Great**, which greets visitors at the entrance. Despite its vast collection, some notable relics remain absent, such as the **Rosetta Stone**, currently in the British Museum, and **Nefertiti’s bust**, housed in Berlin’s Neues Museum. The opening has reignited calls from Egyptologists and the public for the return of these significant artifacts.

History of Construction and Challenges

The construction of the GEM began in **2005** during the presidency of **Hosni Mubarak**, with the aim of replacing the older Egyptian Museum located in downtown Cairo. The project, commissioned by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, was executed by the Belgian construction firm **Besix** in collaboration with Egypt’s **Orascom Construction**.

The completion of the museum faced numerous challenges, including complex design requirements and political instability following the **2011 Arab Spring**. **Joris de Kinder**, Besix’s project leader, cited the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and global conflicts, including wars in **Ukraine** and **Gaza**, as factors contributing to the delays.

Originally slated for a grand opening in July, the ceremony was postponed due to a short-lived conflict in June. The public will be able to visit the museum starting **November 4, 2023**, with daily hours from **09:00 to 18:00**. Adult foreign visitors will pay an entrance fee of **1,450 Egyptian pounds** (€27).

The GEM stands as a testament to Egypt’s rich history and a symbol of its future aspirations, combining ancient artifacts with cutting-edge design. As it opens its doors, the world watches with anticipation to see how this monumental project will influence tourism and cultural preservation in Egypt.