(MENAFN) After years of anticipation, the Grand Egyptian Museum near the Pyramids officially opened on Saturday evening, becoming the world’s largest archaeological complex dedicated to a single civilization.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and delegations from 79 countries, including 39 led by kings, princes, and heads of state and government. The event featured musical performances in one of the museum’s courtyards, with the three pyramids visible in the background. Performers dressed in pharaonic attire created the impression of a grand ceremonial procession.

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly described the museum as a “unique global edifice” and an “exceptional event in Egypt’s history.” He added, “This dream has lived in our imagination for years. This world-class monument is a gift from Egypt to humanity -- a nation with more than 7,000 years of history.” Madbouly acknowledged the contributions of all involved, noting that most of the construction was completed in the past seven years.

The museum’s concept dates back around 30 years, with preparatory work, design competitions, and architectural studies preceding construction. Board of Trustees member Mohamed Mansour projected that the museum could attract over five million visitors annually.

The idea for the Grand Egyptian Museum originated in the 1990s under former Culture Minister Farouk Hosni, who envisioned an open museum encompassing the pyramids, the Sphinx, and nearby temples. The foundation stone was laid by former President Hosni Mubarak in 2002, and site preparation began in May 2005, though progress stalled for several years before the project’s completion.

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