Experience Egypt’s history through its contemporary culture

26.01.2024 - 23:11 / lonelyplanet.com

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Egypt’s archaeological abundance usually positions it as a portal into the past rather than a gateway to the future. But Egypt’s heartbeat is young, vibrant, and innovative, coursing through the veins of an impassioned generation that’s a force to be reckoned with.

Because while it may be brimming with antiquities, Egypt is far from being antiquated. Its contemporary culture, alternative tourism, and urban development challenge the misperception that ancient history and modern innovation are mutually exclusive. To the contrary – it’s this juxtaposition of antiquity and modernity that invites locals and visitors alike to experience Egypt’s storied past through the lens of its dynamic present.

At this pivotal crossroads between past and future, Egypt is reshaping its narrative for visitors.

For three consecutive years the Pyramids of Giza have served as the majestic backdrop for Art D’Égypte’s flagship contemporary art exhibition, Forever is Now. In 2022, the ancient wonder was transformed into a cinematic runway for the Dior Men's Fall-Winter 2023 fashion show. Through timeless experiences where ancient history meets modern artistic expression, Egypt’s thriving creative industry has become a key player in capturing Egypt’s cultural heritage and conveying its narrative across the global stage.

It’s this same creative powerhouse that orchestrated the regal Pharaohs’ Golden Parade of 2021 where 22 royal mummies were ceremoniously transported from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization for its grand opening. These 18 kings and four queens now tell one of many carefully curated stories about the complex relationship between Egyptians and their land throughout history.

Just outside NMEC is Le Lac Du Caire, the gorgeous grounds where stories are unfolding about the Egyptians of today. Here, people gather to celebrate the innovations of modern Egyptian civilization – from launches of lavish real estate developments to summits that draw creative minds and aspiring hopefuls from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Over at the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum, innovation houses history. Visitors step into an architectural work of art to be greeted by a towering statue of Ramesses II that is nothing short of grand. Everything inside the GEM tells a timeless story of Egypt’s layered cultural heritage, right down to the culinary experiences in its commercial space.

The world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilization extends its dedication well beyond its anticipated galleries and artifacts. GEM has played host to immersive art exhibitions like Art Cairo that presented contemporary art from over 100 Egyptian and Arab artists, Traces of