It’s finally happening! The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has partially opened its gleaming doors, and while it’s not fully complete, there’s plenty of magic waiting inside. Nestled near the iconic Pyramids of Giza, GEM’s soft opening this October showcases 12 dazzling new galleries that are already making waves. But before you pack your bags, here’s what you need to know about why you should visit now — and what’s still to come.
A Grand Peek Inside GEM’s New Gallerie
Think of the GEM soft opening as a sneak peek at one of the greatest shows on Earth. The 12 newly opened galleries offer a captivating journey through ancient Egyptian history, featuring treasures that range from everyday artifacts and religious relics to colossal statues that tell stories of power, faith, and art. This is your chance to see history up close and personal, without the massive crowds that are sure to flock once the museum is fully open.
The 12 galleries are divided into chronological eras, including the third intermediate period (about 1070-664 BC), late period (664-332BC), Graeco-Roman period (332BC-AD395), new kingdom (1550-1070BC), middle kingdom (2030-1650BC), and old kingdom (2649-2130BC).
More than just a museum, GEM is designed to be a portal into the heart and soul of one of the world’s most fascinating civilizations. Whether you’re standing before intricately carved statues of deities, admiring exquisite jewelry that once adorned queens, or learning about the daily lives of ancient Egyptians, every step inside GEM is a step into another world.
But What About Tutankhamun?
If you’re here for the boy king — and who isn’t? — we’ve got some important updates. The Tutankhamun Gallery is still not accessible, as the museum continues to put the finishing touches on what promises to be a show-stopping exhibit. So far, over 5,000 treasures from his tomb have been moved to GEM, marking the first time these artifacts will be displayed together. But for now, you’ll have to wait just a bit longer to see them all.
Want a glimpse of Tutankhamun’s most famous treasures, like the breathtaking golden mask? Make your way to the old Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square (also known as the Museum of Cairo), where it will remain on display until the full opening of the GEM.
The Solar Boat (Barge): Awaiting Its Moment
Another gem that’s not quite ready for prime time is the Solar Boat of Pharaoh Khufu. This remarkable vessel, thought to have carried the pharaoh on his journey to the afterlife, has been moved to GEM but remains behind the scenes as it awaits its grand unveiling. While you can’t see it yet, anticipation is building for its debut, adding even more excitement to GEM’s future offerings.
Why Visit GEM During the Soft Opening?
You might be asking yourself: “Is it worth visiting if everything isn’t open yet?” The answer is a resounding yes! The soft opening offers a more intimate and exclusive experience, with fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere to take in the awe-inspiring displays. It’s like getting a backstage pass to history as it unfolds.
By visiting now, you’ll be part of GEM’s evolving story. You’ll witness firsthand how the museum grows and transforms, making your visit even more memorable. Plus, let’s be honest—there’s something magical about saying, “I was there when it all began.”
Creating the Perfect Egyptian Adventure
GEM’s soft opening offers a golden opportunity to let Travelive craft unforgettable itineraries for you. Pair a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum with a trip to the old Egyptian Museum in Cairo to see Tutankhamun’s golden mask, then explore the Great Pyramids and other nearby attractions. Add a Nile cruise, a stroll through Cairo’s bustling bazaars, or an excursion to Luxor for an adventure that blends history, culture, and modern luxury.
At Travelive, we specialize in creating bespoke journeys that immerse travelers in the wonders of Egypt while providing unparalleled comfort and personalized experiences.
Don’t Miss Out on This Special Moment
The Grand Egyptian Museum’s soft opening is your ticket to experiencing Egypt’s treasures in truly exclusive fashion. With newly opened galleries and the promise of even more wonders on the horizon, there’s no better time to visit.
Ready to plan an unforgettable Egyptian adventure? Contact Travelive today, and let’s bring history to life in the most spectacular way possible.
* This post contains photos depicting the Egyptian cultural heritage. Insights into GEM are not yet available to the public