CBS News described the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) as “one of the greatest cultural openings of this century,” after more than three decades of work costing one billion dollars.
The network noted that the museum – the largest in the world dedicated to a single civilization – spans more than five million square feet and covers seven thousand years of ancient Egyptian history, from prehistoric times to the Greco-Roman period.
The report confirmed that the museum houses approximately 100,000 artifacts, meaning a visitor would need about 70 days to see every exhibit.
The network quoted the media advisor to the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Nevin al-Aref as describing the opening moment as “A great day for Egypt and for humanity, a dream come true after all these years.”
The report also highlighted the museum’s unique architectural design in the form of triangles that harmonize with the three pyramids, with panoramic views of the plateau.
The museum also features rare artifacts such as a 3,500-year-old hanging obelisk, the colossal statue of Ramses II, the complete collection of Tutankhamun, and the more than 4,500-year-old King Khufu ship pavilion.
CBS News notes that the project, which began in 1992, has faced numerous political and economic challenges.
Officials hope the museum will revitalize Egyptian tourism and attract approximately five million visitors annually.
The museum opened its doors to the public on November 4, offering visitors the opportunity to delve into the secrets of ancient Egyptian civilization in what the network described as “Egypt’s gift to the world.”
