What to expect on a guided tour of the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum

First Impressions

As I entered the Grand Egyptian Museum set against the majestic Grand Pyramids of Giza, it is easy to see why the former took around 20 years to build. The size of the complex was a sight to behold, and the intricacies of the exterior and interior design are as impressive as they are symbolic.

I walked through the site’s entrance and was immediately awe-inspired by a view of the only hanging obelisk in the world. Surviving the test of time with its grandeur and detailed inscriptions, the structure dominated the entrance’s exterior space, and I couldn’t help but walk closer to glimpse the details of hieroglyphics still adorning the ancient artefact. The raised granite base provides the perfect opportunity to visibly see the cartouche of King Ramesses II still evident today.

Walking up to the main building, ripples of water guide the way, designed to represent the flowing currents of the Nile River. The shape of the museum itself pays homage to the nearby pyramids and complements the surroundings of this location.

A Visual Journey Through Time

Upon entering the main building into the Grand Hall, a colossal statue of Ramesses II carved from red granite is there to greet you, commanding the room with his 11-metre height. Surrounded by a shallow pond, the sculpture’s pristine shape and idyllic condition set the precedent and tone for the hours ahead.

After leaving the Grand Hall, the impressive Grand Stairs presented a series of immaculate statues arranged in a natural progression as I ascended this open‑air gallery. Ranging from royal statues and columns to sarcophagi, it was a mesmerising panorama. Once I reached the top of the staircase, I looked out onto the Grand Pyramids of Giza from an exceptional viewpoint, as the GEM is about two kilometres from the pyramids. The high ceilings of the Grand Hall and Staircase angle up towards the geographical location of the natural site. This was strategically designed to meld the two manmade structures together. Four and a half millennia apart, the pyramids and museum now stand in quiet harmony.

A Guide’s Navigation

I commenced a tour of the museum with an experienced Egyptologist leading the way and was whisked through the large galleries and thousands of historical artefacts with ease, focusing on the items central to the ancient Egyptian story.

Given the sheer volume of galleries and impressive relics, I could imagine the experience being quite overwhelming without a guide. Being able to listen to insights about each piece and then move on swiftly meant I could avoid the build‑up of crowds — and, importantly, gain meaningful context for every item I paused to admire.

The Legacy of Tutankhamun

The museum is designed with 12 galleries showcasing relics relating to society and daily life, kingship from the Early Dynastic Period onwards, and spirituality of ancient Egyptians. But perhaps the most impressive galleries were those of Tutankhamun on the third floor. For the first time in history, this monumental collection can be shown in its entirety, and it did not disappoint.

The Golden King who reigned from 1336BC until 1327BC methodically arranged over 5,000 items to accompany him into his afterlife. These were all discovered in his tomb located at the Valley of the Kings alongside his mummified body. Numerous jewellery items, fragments of clothing, armour and even chariots were on display. I was in awe of coffins crafted from pure gold, decorated with spectacular hieroglyphics. But the piece everyone was enthused to see was King Tutankhamun’s golden mask, found in his sarcophagus. Enclosed in a glass cabinet, the mask was a true vision of beauty. I walked around the display for a 360-degree view of this phenomenal archaeological find. Photos really don’t do it justice.

Where Safety Meets Seamless Design

With the GEM’s modern design and seamless delivery of information accompanying artefacts, it is clear to see that efficiency and organisation are at the forefront of this museum. I walked through the galleries with ease and comfort. The galleries were logically set out and accompanied by my Egyptologist guide, I could effortlessly navigate through crowds without compromising my safety. The public’s safety was also evident through the various security checks at the entrance.

The whole complex offered the sense that it was an oasis of culture and modernity. There were various shops, smart restaurants and cafes to explore at one end of the site so that you could rest during your visit to the museum. The official GEM shop was particularly impressive with many souvenirs handcrafted in Egypt. The contrast between the antiquity of the artefacts and the contemporary design of the building made this visit even more enchanting, leaving a lasting impression.

Words and Photos by Annie Gray