After Two Decades of Construction, the Grand Egyptian Museum Opens Near the Giza Pyramids

The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza

According to УНІАН — Туризм: On November 1, 2025, the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza officially opened its doors following more than 20 years of development. Situated just one kilometer from the iconic Giza pyramids, this museum houses over 5,000 artifacts, including remarkable pieces from Ancient Egypt such as treasures from the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.

Originally slated to open in 2013, the museum's launch was delayed for various reasons. The project’s total cost reached approximately $1 billion. Among the museum’s standout exhibits is an 11-meter-tall statue of Ramses II, crafted 3,200 years ago. Discovered in 1820, the statue remained broken into six parts until it underwent restoration for display.

Highlights of the Museum's Collection

Other notable items on display include:

• The famous mask of Tutankhamun, uncovered in 1922 alongside the young king's mummy. Notably, the mask’s braided beard was damaged in 2014 but has since been expertly restored;
• Khufu’s solar boat, dating back to around 2500 BCE and made from cedar wood. Found in 1954, it was recovered in 1,200 separate pieces;
• A statue of Hatshepsut, the female pharaoh who ruled circa 1470 BCE. Interestingly, she is depicted wearing a false beard, traditionally a male symbol of power;
• Ostraca from the New Kingdom period, over 3,000 years old, discovered near Luxor and now exhibited in the museum.

The museum's inauguration marks a significant milestone for archaeologists and historians worldwide. It not only preserves invaluable relics but also serves as a hub for research and education on Ancient Egypt’s rich heritage.

Located in close proximity to the Giza pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum is poised to transform the region’s tourism industry by granting unprecedented access to artifacts previously unavailable to the public. This new cultural landmark is expected to draw visitors from across the globe, boosting interest in Ancient Egyptian history and archaeology.