The Grand Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, has opened the doors to some of its galleries, much to the excitement of history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Located near the iconic pyramids of Giza, this monumental facility has been over two decades in the making and promises to be a major cultural attraction in Egypt and beyond.

Spanning an impressive 120 acres, the museum will eventually showcase more than 100,000 objects, allowing visitors to delve deep into the rich history of ancient Egypt.

Among the highlights is the collection of treasures from the tomb of the renowned boy-king, Tutankhamun.

Although the priceless artifacts from King Tut’s tomb are not yet on display, visitors can already marvel at a diverse range of items, including intricate pharaonic statues, ornate sarcophagi, and remarkably preserved mummified bodies.

The Grand Egyptian Museum was initially set to open in 2012; however, a series of challenges, including rising costs, political instability, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, have led to repeated delays.

To date, the mega-project has exceeded $1 billion (£768 million) in costs, highlighting the extensive investment involved in bringing this ambitious vision to fruition.

As part of a phased approach, the recent partial opening serves as a trial run for the museum, following the unveiling of the main hall and stairway last year.

This gradual rollout allows the museum staff to fine-tune operations and enhance visitor experiences ahead of the anticipated official opening date, which has yet to be announced.

The museum’s architect, Hani Abdelkhalek, described the project as a “dream come true,” emphasizing its importance for both Egypt and global heritage.

He noted that the Grand Egyptian Museum is not merely a building to display artefacts; it is designed to be a comprehensive experience that educates visitors about the history, culture, and daily life of ancient Egyptians.

One of the primary objectives of the museum is to promote cultural tourism, which has suffered setbacks in recent years.

With the lifting of travel restrictions and an increasing desire for cultural experiences post-pandemic, the museum aims to attract visitors from around the world.

Egyptian officials are optimistic that the museum will play a pivotal role in reviving tourism, particularly given the country’s rich historical context and the allure of its ancient treasures.

As the museum prepares for its full unveiling, it promises to be a transformative addition to the Egyptian cultural landscape.

The display of artefacts from various epochs of ancient Egyptian history will not only serve as a testament to the country’s rich heritage but also as a bridge connecting the past with future generations.

With each new gallery opening, the anticipation grows. Visitors are encouraged to experience the museum’s initial offerings while eagerly awaiting the day when King Tutankhamun’s treasures and other significant artefacts will finally take their rightful place on display.

The Grand Egyptian Museum stands poised to be a beacon of knowledge and a cornerstone of cultural pride, welcoming guests to explore the fascinating world of ancient Egypt.