A Pharaoh on the Move
Crafted over 3,200 years ago, the towering granite statue of Ramses II stands at an impressive 11 meters tall and weighs approximately 83 tonnes . Discovered in 1820 near Memphis, the statue lay broken into six pieces until it was painstakingly reassembled and unveiled in Ramses Square (formerly Bab Al-Hadid) in 1955 — a public centerpiece outside Cairo’s train station .
Protecting a National Treasure
Over time, the statue endured damage from heavy pollution and street vibrations — prompting authorities to relocate it in 2006 to a safer site near what would become the GEM .
A Heroic Relocation
On January 25, 2018, the statue embarked on its fourth and most grandiose journey: a carefully orchestrated 400-meter transfer into the museum atrium . This mission — a collaborative feat involving the Ministry of Antiquities, Egypt’s Armed Forces Engineering Authority, and Arab Contractors — was executed using a suspended iron cage and steel pendulum bridge to minimize vibration and risk . The ceremonial move, accompanied by military honors and Egypt’s national anthem, concluded successfully with the statue majestically erected at its permanent landmark position .
GEM Opening: A Timely Reunion
The Grand Egyptian Museum — a monumental cultural complex just steps from the Giza Pyramids — is Egypt’s most ambitious heritage project. Boasting more than 100,000 artifacts and cutting-edge exhibit design, the GEM is poised to redefine global standards for archaeology and education . While parts of the museum are already accessible, the official inauguration is set for November 1, 2025, marking a historic new chapter in Egyptology .
Why This Story Matters
Symbolic centerpiece: Ramses II’s statue is not only a stunning artifact but also a bold bridge between ancient history and modern preservation — welcoming visitors at GEM’s very entrance. Engineering marvel: The locomotive relocation highlights Egypt’s capacity for safeguarding heritage through innovation and care. Tourism impact: The statue’s relocation and GEM’s opening will cement Egypt’s status as a leading destination for cultural tourism.
Final Thought
The colossal statue of Ramses II has journeyed through centuries — from ancient Memphis to the modern marvel of GEM. Now, as the museum readies its grand opening this November, the statue stands ready to tell its story to a world eager for wonder.
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