It’s an exciting day today because this is the day that the mummies are to be moved to the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation in Fustat, near old Cairo. The new building will have a special research centre and showcase for the Pharaonic mummies, including Hatshepsut and Ramses II.

This seemed like a good opportunity to share with you my visit to the old Egyptian museum, the one in Tahrir Square which I found absolutely delightful. I’d never been before becuase it was so crowded I didn’t feel able to face the huge busloads of tourists. But on this trip, because of the corona virus, it wasn’t nearly as crowded as it usually is because there were no tour groups; the few people that were there all independent travelers like me and most of them were Egyptian. I had whole galleries to myself and the people I did meet were super friendly and it was extremely enjoyable

The building is historic and quite wonderful and honestly was one of most atmospheric museum visits I’ve visited in my life. I did think about getting a guide but then I thought the best thing would be to just wander through the museum and soak up not only the atmosphere. So I walked through its grand halls in silence, appreciating everything from the exhibits to the magnificent architecture.

Built in 1901 by the Italian construction company, Garozzo-Zaffarani, to a design by the French architect Marcel Dourgnon, it is one of the largest museums in the world and as of today houses the world’s largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities.

The museum starts with the very earliest times of the old Kingdom, and goes up to the Greco-Roman era. After that, you’d need to visit the Coptic Museum to see the late Roman Coptic era.

If and when you embark on your journey to Egypt, allow the allure of the ancient to beckon you towards the magnificent Old Egyptian Museum at Tahrir. Amidst the splendor of Egypt’s cultural treasures, let the treasures from the past evoke a sense of wonder within your soul. Even as the artifacts find their place in the grand tapestry of history, the radiant pink edifice standing tall on Tahrir Square shall forever remain a pilgrimage for those seeking to unravel the mysteries of the past.

Details:

9:00 am – 7:00 pm every day

Ticket Office
8:30 am – 6:00 pm

Adult: EGP 300
Student: EGP 150

Where to eat: (use Google Maps to find these)

Downtown Cairo boasts an array of exceptional eateries, but my absolute favorite is the illustrious Cafe Riche. This historic café, located on Talaat Harb Street, just an eight-minute walk from the museum, exudes charm and character. Since its establishment in 1908 Café Riche is an iconic landmark in downtown Cairo. Throughout the 20th century, this enchanting café has played host to intellectuals and revolutionaries, bearing witness to countless historically significant occasions. With delectable cuisine, great service, and an all-day dining experience, I eat here whenever I am in downtown Cairo. 17 Talaat Harb, Bab Al Louq, Qasr El Nil, Cairo

Also nearby is Felfela. They’ve been in business since the 1950s, and they produce deeply authentic Egyptian food that is loved by locals and tourists alike. They will also deliver to your hotel or hostel. 15 Hoda Shaarawy, Bab Al Louq, قسم, Cairo

Coffee – I like the chain La Poire and there is one right near the museum on Qasr El Nil. The chain does terrific patisserie and great coffee and savory snacks in the French style so beloved of Egyptians.