The Louvre Museum in Paris is one of the most famous museums in the world. It is home to incredible artworks like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. But there’s a lesser-known part of the museum that many visitors miss — the Egyptian Collection. If you’re planning a visit to the Louvre, don’t skip this hidden gem. In this guide, we’ll take you through the highlights of the Egyptian Collection and why it should be part of your Tours of Louvre experience.
A Journey Back in Time
The Louvre’s Egyptian Collection offers a fascinating journey through ancient Egyptian history. With over 50,000 artifacts, it is one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities outside Egypt. The collection covers over 4,000 years of Egyptian civilization — from the earliest settlements to the Greco-Roman period.
When you walk through the galleries, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The rooms are filled with ancient statues, sarcophagi, tools, jewelry, and even real mummies. It’s a magical experience that gives you a deeper understanding of how the Egyptians lived, worshiped, and worked.
Highlights of the Egyptian Collection
Here are some must-see items when you explore this hidden gem of the Louvre:
1. The Seated Scribe
This statue is one of the most famous pieces in the Egyptian Collection. It shows a man sitting cross-legged, holding a papyrus scroll. His lifelike eyes seem to follow you as you walk by. The Seated Scribe is a beautiful example of ancient Egyptian art and craftsmanship.
2. Sarcophagi and Mummies
The museum houses a number of sarcophagi (stone coffins) and actual mummies. These offer a rare look at Egyptian burial customs. You’ll see how they prepared for the afterlife, with care and great detail. The artwork and hieroglyphs on the sarcophagi are especially impressive.
3. Temple of Karnak Columns
You don’t have to go to Egypt to admire the wonders of Karnak. The Louvre has huge columns from the Temple of Karnak, beautifully carved and incredibly preserved. They give you a sense of how grand Egyptian temples once were.
4. Jewelry and Everyday Items
Many visitors are surprised by how advanced Egyptian jewelry was. The display of gold necklaces, rings, and bracelets shows the elegance of their design. You can also see tools, pottery, and mirrors that tell you about daily life in ancient Egypt.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
Most tourists rush to see the Mona Lisa and skip the other wings of the museum. That means the Egyptian galleries are usually quiet and peaceful — perfect for exploring at your own pace. It’s like discovering a secret world inside the busy Louvre.
Plus, the galleries are well-lit and well-organized, with English descriptions for most items. Even if you don’t know much about ancient Egypt, you’ll find it easy to understand and enjoy.
Tips for Visiting the Egyptian Collection
- Start Early: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and take your time.
- Use a Guide: Consider joining a guided tour that includes the Egyptian section. Expert guides can explain the stories behind each piece.
- Plan Ahead: The Louvre is huge, so it helps to plan your visit in advance. Mark the Egyptian Collection on your museum map so you don’t miss it.
- Photography: Photography is allowed in most parts of the Louvre, but always check the signs near each exhibit.
Book a Guided Tour for the Best Experience
Exploring the Louvre on your own is great, but a guided tour can make it even better. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll understand the meaning behind each artifact, learn fun facts, and get the most out of your visit.
There are many options available for Tours of Louvre that include the Egyptian Collection. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or with a group, a guided experience will help you dive deeper into history while saving time and avoiding confusion in the large museum.
Final Thoughts
The Louvre Museum is full of treasures, but the Egyptian Collection stands out as a unique and fascinating section. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore something different and uncover stories from one of the oldest civilizations on Earth.
So next time you visit Paris, don’t just follow the crowds. Take the time to explore this hidden gem and discover the wonders of ancient Egypt. Make sure to include it in your Tours of Louvre, and you’ll come away with memories that last a lifetime.