Alexandria National Museum
Al Iskandariyah
The Alexandria National Museum, located in the heart of Alexandria, Egypt, is housed in a restored Italian-style palace that once belonged to a wealthy local merchant. Opened in 2003, the museum showcases approximately 1,800 artifacts spanning from the Old Kingdom through to modern times, illustrating Egypt's rich cultural heritage. Its collections were gathered from various sources including the Egyptian Museum, the Coptic Museum, and the Greco-Roman Museum, highlighting the city's diverse historical layers. Among its treasures are rare statues from the New Kingdom, such as a head of Queen Hatshepsut and a bust of King Akhenaten, as well as exhibits dedicated to underwater archaeology featuring statues of Isis and other Greco-Roman deities. The museum also contains a notable coin gallery with coins from the Byzantine and Islamic periods, and a section displaying precious items from the Muhammad Ali dynasty. This blend of ancient, classical, and modern artifacts makes the Alexandria National Museum a unique cultural destination that vividly narrates the city's pivotal role in Egyptian and Mediterranean history.
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Astuce: Visit the museum during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and experience a quieter atmosphere. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The museum is accessible by public transport and is located near other key attractions in Alexandria, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.
Faits intéressants
- •The museum building was once the residence of Asaad Bassily, a prominent Alexandrian timber merchant.
- •It features a dedicated underwater archaeology section with artifacts recovered from the Mediterranean Sea near Alexandria.
- •The collection includes rare New Kingdom statues such as a head of Queen Hatshepsut and a bust of King Akhenaten.
- •Coins from Byzantine and Islamic periods recovered underwater are exhibited in the museum.
- •The museum houses a collection of precious items from the Muhammad Ali dynasty, showcasing Egypt's modern royal heritage.
Histoire
The building housing the Alexandria National Museum was originally a palace built in the Italian architectural style for a wealthy Alexandrian timber merchant, Asaad Bassily, who lived there until 1954.
It later served as the American consulate before being acquired by Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities in 1996.
After extensive restoration, the museum was inaugurated in 2003.
The museum's collections represent a comprehensive overview of Alexandria's history, drawing artifacts from Ancient Egypt, the Greco-Roman period, and Islamic eras, reflecting the city's continuous cultural significance from antiquity to modern times.
Guide du lieu
Grand Entrance Hallearly 20th century
The museum's entrance hall welcomes visitors with its restored Italianate architecture and serves as a gateway to the diverse historical exhibits within.
Ancient Egyptian GalleryOld Kingdom to New Kingdom (c. 2686–1069 BC)
This gallery presents artifacts from Egypt's Old Kingdom through the New Kingdom, including statues, pottery, and tools that illustrate the evolution of Egyptian civilization.
Underwater Archaeology SectionVarious, mainly Hellenistic and Roman periods
Showcases artifacts recovered from the Mediterranean Sea, including statues of Isis, a priest, and Greco-Roman deities such as Venus and Alexander the Great.
Coin GalleryByzantine and Islamic periods
Displays a collection of coins from different eras including Byzantine, Islamic, and those found underwater in Abu Qir Bay, illustrating the economic history of the region.
Muhammad Ali Dynasty Exhibit19th to early 20th century
Features silver, gold, and jewelry items used by the royal family, reflecting the opulence and artistry of Egypt's modern era.
Contact
Téléphone: 03 4835519
