The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Image via TAM Gallery

As Cairenes, we are blessed to host some of the world’s most amazing historical artefacts and be a hub for contemporary art in the region. For this reason, we don’t consider that we may be missing out on some fantastic cultural experiences outside of our city, aside from obvious specific locations like Luxor, Aswan, Fayoum, and the like. We go to the beach to relax and unwind, but not tap into our inner Dora the Explorer and discover the cultural gems that exist in coastal towns and resorts, even though we probably should. So to spice up your next beachside getaway, we’ve got five museums and galleries for you to explore. 

King Tut Museum, Sharm El Sheikh

Image via Tripadvisor

This museum is among the most important tourist attractions in South Sinai and includes a collection of 135 rare pieces found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun when it was discovered in 1922. It’s astounding how much we think we know about our own history and artefacts, only to find out that there is so much more to explore and visit.

TAM Gallery, Diplo North Coast & El Gouna

Image via TAM Gallery

One of Egypt’s biggest and most iconic contemporary art galleries, TAM Gallery, is dedicated to bridging the gap between artists looking for a platform and consumers with an affinity for the arts. In addition to Cairo, with their main branch on the Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road, their Gouna and North Coast branches are a great change from the hectic nightlife of crowded beach resorts.

Al Alamein Military Museum and Cemetery

Image via Viator

El Alamein is known worldwide for its notorious World War II battle. Its Military Museum was founded in 1956 under the late President Abdel Nasser to commemorate Egypt’s role in one of the war’s most important conflicts, which had taken place 14 years prior. The neighbouring cemetery commemorates the fallen soldiers of that battle and is truly a sight to see. While they may not be located within our beloved resorts, they are close enough to access easily and make for a memorable trip with the family.

Dahab Underwater Museum

Image via The Arab Weekly

Dahab’s Underwater Museum was launched just a few years ago by a community of professional divers in hopes of reducing damage to marine life in Dahab. Dive sites that witness more visitors than is recommended have seen an increasing number of dead coral reefs, and from this, the idea for the museum was born. Statues of ancient Egyptian deities, animals, and many more have been installed on the seabed to reduce traffic on iconic dive sites.

Easel & Camera, El Gouna

Image via Instagram

Based in 6th of October in Cairo, Easel & Camera is another amazing contemporary art gallery showcasing outstanding local artists’ work. There, you can find artworks of various media, from paintings to sculptures and everything in between. The pieces there are all one of a kind, and you can even find some of the larger ones around the Marina!