At the end of the Grand Staircase, beside the breathtaking panorama of the pyramids, the journey transitions into the heart of the Grand Egyptian Museum: the Main Galleries.
Within these expansive exhibition halls unfolds the extraordinary story of ancient Egypt, a civilisation that blossomed along the fertile Nile and left an indelible mark on world history.
The narrative opens with the earliest human settlements, following the rise of modest communities through the remarkable Predynastic Age and the Early Dynastic period.
Display after display traces nearly 700,000 years of growth, culminating at the dawn of the Old Kingdom in 2034 BC, an era when power coalesced under the first pharaohs.
Moving deeper into the galleries reveals the evolution of Egyptian society. During the Middle Kingdom and Second Intermediate Period (c. 2034–1550 BC), Egypt developed remarkable bureaucracy, refined artistic expression, and fostered extended diplomatic ties.
The New Kingdom (c. 1550–1069 BC) radiates in the exhibition with its dazzling splendor, standing as an age of unparalleled power, creativity, and monumental achievement.
The journey progresses through the Third Intermediate, Late, and Greco-Roman periods. Here, Egypt is portrayed as a vibrant crossroads, shaped by influences from Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Near East up to 394 CE, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural resilience and transformation.
To deepen the historical perspective, three thematic galleries illuminate the core pillars of Egyptian civilisation, Society, Kingship, and Beliefs.
‘Society’ presents Egypt’s intrinsic connection to the Nile Valley. Early communities learned to harness the river’s gifts, giving rise to flourishing villages and thriving cities. Advances in agriculture, pottery, and toolmaking laid the foundations for one of history’s most resilient cultures. Prosperity and artistic brilliance flourished across the Middle and New Kingdoms, reaching even the lives of everyday people. Multi-ethnic cities such as Sais and Alexandria stand as testament to Egypt’s openness to new ideas and cultural exchange.
‘Kingship’ explores the evolution of royal authority. The unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under the first pharaohs launched an era of monumental pyramids and sacred architecture, powerful symbols of divine rule. Through cycles of unity and division, as well as times of native and foreign dynasties, kingship adapted and endured. The New Kingdom saw the remarkable prominence of queens and royal families, who shaped diplomatic and religious life alongside the pharaohs. At its core, the institution of kingship honoured both tradition and adaptation across the centuries.
‘Beliefs’ delves into the spiritual heart of Egyptian culture, a society dedicated to order, renewal, and the promise of eternal life. From the simplest graves to majestic tombs and temples, complex funerary beliefs and reverence for a vast pantheon of deities shaped every aspect of existence. Over time, religions evolved, becoming more inclusive; the cult of Osiris and vast temple complexes represented hopes cherished across society. Later, as Egypt mingled with Greece and Rome, new gods and customs were woven seamlessly into this ever-evolving spiritual tapestry.
Tutankhamun’s treasures
Among the museum’s most extraordinary galleries stands the new Tutankhamun exhibition. The display space devoted to the young pharaoh is now ten times larger than the former gallery at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, encompassing two spacious halls over 7,500 square meters.
For the first time since Howard Carter’s discovery of the tomb in 1922, the entire collection of over 5,300 artifacts is united under one roof. Previously, only about half the treasures were displayed to the public, with many items kept in storage for more than a century.
This unprecedented gathering offers new insights into the daily life and personal world of King Tutankhamun, alongside his regal legacy. Many objects, never before revealed, now illuminate facets of the young king’s hobbies, interests, and environment, making this a truly singular chapter in the presentation of Egypt’s ancient legacy.
The treasures themselves are showcased in a manner that balances preservation with engagement. Beyond traditional display cases, the exhibition incorporates interactive graphics, tactile models, and accessible features that welcome visitors of all abilities. Carefully controlled lighting and environmental conditions ensure the safeguarding of each artifact for generations to come. Every aspect of the design celebrates inclusivity and deepens the sense of wonder that surrounds Tutankhamun’s treasures.
Next, the story will unfold further with a look at Khufu’s Solar Boats and the museum’s enchanting gardens.
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Discover Part 3: A majestic welcome from King Ramses II in GEM’s epic journey
