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Museum · Cairo

Egyptian Museum

Home to one of the world’s greatest collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun, royal mummies, animal mummies, and thousands of objects spanning over 5,000 years of history.

 

Approx. 120,000

Artefacts

About this attraction

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is one of the most important archaeological museums in the world. Located in the heart of Cairo’s Tahrir Square, it houses an extraordinary collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts that tell the story of one of humanity’s greatest civilizations.

Opened in 1902, the museum contains over 120,000 objects, ranging from monumental statues and intricate jewelry to everyday items used by ancient Egyptians. Its galleries provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the culture, religion, art, and daily life of ancient Egypt.

Among the museum’s most famous exhibits are the treasures of King Tutankhamun, discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter in the Valley of the Kings. These remarkable objects, including the iconic golden mask, reveal the wealth and craftsmanship of Egypt’s New Kingdom period.

Visitors can also explore the Animal Mummies Room, featuring mummified cats, crocodiles, birds, and other sacred animals that played an important role in ancient Egyptian religious beliefs. Additional highlights include statues of pharaohs, sarcophagi, papyrus manuscripts, funerary equipment, and objects recovered from royal tombs throughout Egypt.

The museum serves as an excellent introduction to many of the archaeological sites visitors will encounter during their journey through Egypt, helping bring ancient temples, tombs, and monuments to life.

Many travellers now choose to combine their visit with the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), which showcases additional collections and some of Egypt’s most significant archaeological discoveries.

Tutankhamun Collection

One of the most famous archaeological discoveries in history, including treasures from the tomb of King Tutankhamun but now the collection is in the Grand Egyptian museum.

Animal Mummies Room

A fascinating collection of mummified animals that reveals the spiritual beliefs and religious practices of ancient Egypt.

Ancient Egyptian Masterpieces

Statues, sarcophagi, jewelry, papyri, and everyday objects spanning more than five millennia of Egyptian history.

“The Egyptian Museum offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to understand the richness and diversity of ancient Egyptian civilization. The collection connects many of Egypt’s archaeological sites into a single historical narrative, making it one of the most important museum visits in the country.”

— Historical context note for guides

Visitor tips

Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore the main highlights of the museum.

Consider hiring a guide to better understand the significance of the artefacts and their historical context.

Photography policies may vary between galleries, so check current regulations upon entry.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the museum contains numerous galleries spread across multiple floors.

Combine your visit with nearby attractions in downtown Cairo, including Tahrir Square and the Nile Corniche.

Visit Information

Hours: 9:00 – 17:00

Entry Fees: Subject to Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities regulations

Best Time: Year-round

Duration: 2–3 Hours Average

Access: Mostly Flat

Discover Ancient Egypt in Cairo

The Egyptian Museum is one of the highlights of any Cairo itinerary and offers the perfect introduction to Egypt’s remarkable history before exploring the country’s temples, pyramids, and archaeological sites.

Nearby attractions

Grand Egyptian Museum

Ancient Egypt · Modern Museum Experience

20 km west

Giza Pyramids

Ancient Wonder · UNESCO World Heritage Site

18 km west

Cairo Citadel

Islamic Cairo · Historic Fortress

6 km southeast

Khan El Khalili

Historic Bazaar · Traditional Market

3 km east