Egypt Officially Opens More Galleries In Museum

In a country that has been waiting for over two decades, Egypt has opened additional galleries in its GEM located near the iconic pyramids of Giza. Not being the long-awaited treasures from King Tutankhamun and the historic solar boats, it is nonetheless a milestone for Egypt in its efforts to preserve and showcase its ancient heritage.

The GEM-its construction, started over 20 years ago was expected to open its doors in 2012 and suffered several delays due to political instability and financial woes. Last week, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced the "trial opening" of the museum, without setting a date for the formal inauguration, expected to be attended by several world leaders.

Visitors can now tour nearly a dozen galleries, each one filled with an assortment of Egypt's rich antiquities, including those in the process of repatriation from Western museums. Ali Abu Dshish, a member of the Egyptian Archaeologists Union, said this opening carries a very important message: Egypt not only safeguards its heritage but is working hard on recovering artifacts that have been scattered all over the world.

The attitude of tourists, who had already begun to visit the newly opened sections, praised the modernity of the museum and were also awestruck by the grandeur of ancient sculptures. "It's very modern, but at the same time, you feel very connected with ancient history," shared Kseniia Muse, a tourist from Russia.

Tourism is among the most important sources of income in Egypt, and that country's economy is in urgent need of it. The government also hopes the GEM will not only welcome visitors but help restore tourism to the country in general, and thereby help alleviate the shortage of foreign currency that has had such a devastating impact on Egypt over the past two years.