A lost world brought back to life by the magical city!
Welcome to the Egyptian Museum of Turin!
Every time I think about the Egyptian Museum, the first thing that comes to mind, and I think for most of you too, is Egypt, the heat, the desert. Certainly not a city at the foot of the Alps like Turin. Instead, the Egyptian Museum of Turin is the oldest museum in the world entirely dedicated to the Nile civilization, and it is considered, for the value and quantity of the artifacts, the most important in the world after the one in Cairo.
Its inauguration dates back to the distant year of 1824 when the King of Sardinia and sovereign of the Savoyard state, “Charles Felix of Savoy,” opened the exhibition of Egyptian works to the public for the first time. To see the first piece of the collection, we have to go all the way back to 1626; it’s a bronze tablet called the “Mensa Isiaca,” purchased by the Duke of Savoy, “Charles Emmanuel I.”
This work aroused a lot of interest in the Enlightenment world, so much so that over the centuries, several expeditions to Egypt were planned, bringing to light more than 8000 works that still form part of this beautiful museum. Today, the Egyptian Museum is home to over 37000 carefully preserved artifacts, visible to the public.
It’s fun to think that the Savoy family purchased the entire collection (8000 pieces) in 1824 for the modest sum of 400,000 lire from the archaeologist Bernardino Drovetti.
The Egyptian Museum of Turin is located in the heart of downtown of the city, between Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo. After a significant six-year renovation completed in 2015, this museum gained worldwide fame, to the extent that a renowned French Egyptologist, Champollion, said, ‘The road to Memphis and Thebes passes through Turin.’ With these praising words, I would like to convey how important this place is for all of us Turin residents and for the whole world.
Curious to learn fun facts and be led by a professional guide?
“The best thing about this museum?
Without a doubt, understanding the millennial history of a civilization that revolutionized the world! An experience that fascinated me from start to finish; from 4,000-year-old mummies to hieroglyphs carved into rock, enormous sarcophagi exquisitely decorated, and even ancient garments beautifully preserved! I truly enjoyed the two and a half hours of my visit, and I highly recommend it!
P.S.: There is a room with computers where you can translate your name into hieroglyphs! A fun feature that you can save on your phone and keep with you!”
What is the Egyptian Museum of Turin famous for?
The Egyptian Museum of Turin houses one of the largest and most significant collections of Egyptian antiquities in the world, with over 30,000 pieces. Its highlights include the famous Turin King List and a 5,000-year-old statue of Pharaoh Khafre.
When was the Egyptian Museum of Turin founded?
The museum was established in 1824 by King Charles Felix of Savoy. It has since grown through archaeological missions and donations, becoming a key center for Egyptian culture.
How do I get to the Egyptian Museum of Turin?
Buses: Several bus lines serve the area, including Bus 56, 61, and 68, with stops nearby. The “Porta Palazzo” stop is another option, just a short walk from the museum.Metro: While the museum doesn’t have a metro station directly next to it, you can take Line 1 of the Turin Metro and exit at “Porta Nuova” station. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the museum. Trams: Tram lines 4, 10, and 13 all stop close to the museum. You can get off at the “Museo Egizio” stop (lines 4 and 10) or “Piazza Castello” (for line 13), both within walking distance of the museum entrance.
Here the GTT Public Transport site.
How much time should I spend at the Egyptian Museum of Turin?
A visit typically takes about 2-3 hours. This allows enough time to explore the main exhibits, including the Gallery of Kings and the Tomb of Kha, as well as any temporary exhibits.
Is the Egyptian Museum of Turin suitable for families with children?
Yes, the museum offers educational activities and guided tours suitable for children, helping them understand the ancient Egyptian culture through interactive experiences. Turin: Egyptian Museum for children and families
