A temporary exhibition titled “Treasures of the Pharaohs” will open in Rome at the renowned Scuderie del Quirinale from October 24, 2025, through May 3, 2026.
The announcement was made at a press conference on Thursday, sparking excitement among cultural and diplomatic circles alike.
Situated atop the historic remains of the Roman Temple of Serapide and facing the opulent Palazzo del Quirinale, the official residence of the Italian President, the Scuderie del Quirinale is celebrated as one of Italy’s premier cultural venues.
Operated by the Italian Ministry of Culture under the Presidency of the Republic, it promises a fitting stage for these priceless artifacts.
The exhibition brings together 130 exquisite masterpieces from the most treasured collections,thanks to loans from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and the Luxor Museum.
Spanning six themed sections, the display will guide visitors through the intricacies of ancient Egyptian life; from daily rituals to the mysteries of religious and funerary customs, and even the latest archaeological discoveries.
Highlights include awe-inspiring statues of Sennefer, Ramses VI, and Thutmose III, alongside dazzling jewellery, elegantly crafted everyday objects, and beautifully decorated sarcophagi.
Visitors will see the monumental ‘Menkaure Triad,’ a powerful depiction of the famed pharaoh flanked by goddesses, an emblem of sacred kingship from more than 4,500 years ago. The exhibition includes the golden coffin of Thuya (grandmother of Akhenaten) and the magnificent funerary covering of PsusennesI. Each piece inspires awe and reveals fascinating stories of royalty, artistry, and faith.
The Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Mohamed Ismail Khaled, underscored the significance of this extraordinary collaboration, saying, “Egypt and Italy have worked together for decades, with more than 21 Italian missions active in Egypt. While we have shared exhibitions before, this is the first time in over 20 years that such a collection has traveled to Rome itself.”
“With millions visiting Rome every year, we hope all will witness the wonders of ancient Egypt and perhaps be inspired to explore even more in Egypt and at the Egyptian Museum,” he added.
Italian Ambassador Michele Quaroni echoed these sentiments, describing the exhibition as “far more than a showcase of priceless art. It is a celebration of knowledge, of identity, and of the enduring power of cultural exchange.”
“This event stands as a dialogue between our two nations, both deeply rooted in the rich soil of human achievement and creativity,” he said.
Ambassador Quaroni emphasised that the exhibition represents the best of cultural diplomacy, linking past and future, preservation and innovation, and strengthening partnerships between Italy, Egypt, and the wider European context.
In a video message, Italian Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli said that the exhibition not only celebrates the past but also speaks to the present and future, building cultural bridges that transcend borders and differences. It is a powerful reminder of the universal value of heritage.
