Egypt opens majestic Grand Egyptian Museum to the world
Monumental complex near Giza Pyramids celebrates nation’s heritage, renews calls for return of looted artefacts
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — After more than two decades of construction and three decades of planning, Egypt has inaugurated the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum, marking a monumental milestone in the country’s cultural and national history.
Located within walking distance of the Giza Pyramids, the $1.2 billion complex now stands as the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilization, housing more than 100,000 artefacts that chronicle 7,000 years of Egyptian heritage.
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi described the museum’s opening as “a new chapter for Egypt,” during a glittering ceremony attended by international leaders, royals, and dignitaries. The event reflected a deep sense of national pride among Egyptians at home and abroad.
At the heart of the museum’s collection is the complete tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun — including his throne, gold mask, and chariots — displayed in full for the first time. Visitors entering the grand atrium are greeted by the towering statue of Ramesses II, symbolizing Egypt’s enduring legacy.
Tourism officials expect the opening to bolster Egypt’s already strong visitor numbers. The country welcomed 15.7 million tourists last year — a 21 percent increase from pre-pandemic levels — generating around $15 billion in revenue, despite regional instability in neighboring Gaza and Yemen.
Beyond its economic significance, the museum has reignited global debate over the repatriation of Egyptian antiquities long held in Western institutions. Egypt has renewed its calls for the return of iconic artefacts such as the Rosetta Stone from the British Museum, the Dendera Zodiac from the Louvre, and the bust of Nefertiti from Berlin’s Neues Museum.
The British Museum alone holds more than 100,000 Egyptian artefacts and 170,000 items from Mesopotamia — a legacy of colonial-era expeditions that removed treasures from their homelands. Cultural advocates say the new museum strengthens Egypt’s claim to reclaim these masterpieces.
With state-of-the-art technology and interactive exhibits designed to attract younger audiences, the Grand Egyptian Museum represents both a preservation of the past and a vision for the future.
If it succeeds in fueling a renewed global dialogue on cultural restitution, observers say, Egypt’s newest landmark will serve not only as a symbol of heritage — but also as a catalyst for historical justice.
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