The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has been awarded the prestigious Prix Versailles by UNESCO, earning recognition as one of the world’s most beautiful museums in 2024.
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has been awarded the prestigious Prix Versailles by UNESCO, recognizing it as one of the world’s most beautiful museums in 2024. The announcement was made during a ceremony at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris, celebrating museums that excel in architectural design, cultural representation, and sustainability.
Egypt’s Ambassador to France, Alaa Youssef, accepted the award on behalf of GEM. The museum joins an elite group of seven globally recognized institutions, including the A4 Art Museum in China, the Smritivan Earthquake Museum in India, and the Simose Art Museum in Japan.
Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, described the accolade as a milestone elevating the museum’s international stature. “This award highlights GEM’s remarkable design and cultural significance, coinciding with its soft opening, inviting visitors worldwide to explore its treasures,” he said.
As the largest museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian civilization, GEM houses iconic artifacts, including the complete treasures of King Tutankhamun displayed together for the first time since their discovery in 1922. The museum also features the Khufu Boat Museum.
Designed to reflect sunlight from the Giza Pyramids, GEM’s architecture blends modernity with heritage, offering a captivating cultural and visual experience. Key attractions include the Hanging Obelisk Plaza, the colossal statue of King Ramses II in the atrium, and the Grand Staircase leading to panoramic views of the pyramids. Visitors can explore 12 main galleries, a Children’s Museum, and a commercial area with restaurants and cafés.
Ahmed Ghoneim, CEO of the GEM Authority, emphasized the significance of the Prix Versailles, which has recognized architectural excellence since 2015. “The design embodies Egypt’s timeless heritage and modern vision, positioning GEM as a global cultural and tourism landmark,” he said.
As GEM nears its official inauguration, it stands as a testament to Egypt’s historic legacy and future ambitions, reaffirming its role as a leader in cultural innovation and the arts on the global stage.
