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Gayer-Anderson Museum: A Journey Through Ottoman Cairo

Explore a captivating blend of Islamic art and Ottoman-era architecture in two historic Cairene houses, once home to a passionate British collector.

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The Gayer-Anderson Museum, also known as Bayt al-Kritliyya (House of the Cretan Woman), is a captivating museum in Cairo, housed in two well-preserved 16th and 17th-century houses. Named after Major John Gayer-Anderson, a British army doctor and avid collector, the museum showcases a rich blend of Islamic art, period furnishings, and personal artifacts, offering a glimpse into the life of a wealthy Cairene during the Ottoman era.

A brief summary to Gayer-Anderson Museum

  • 27H2+87Q، أحمد بن طولون طولون, El Sayeda Zeinab, As Sayedah, Cairo Governorate, EG
  • +20223647822
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Book your tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Hire a guide to learn about the history of the museum and the stories behind the artifacts.
  • Dress respectfully, as the museum is located near a mosque.
  • Take your time to explore the museum's many rooms and courtyards, each with its unique charm.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    The most convenient way to reach the Gayer-Anderson Museum is by taxi. Ask for "mes-ghid Ibn Tulun" (Mosque of Ibn Tulun), as the museum is located adjacent to the southeast corner of the mosque. A short taxi ride from downtown Cairo will typically cost between EGP 30-50, depending on traffic.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest metro station is Sayyida Zeinab, approximately 1 km west of the museum. From the station, you can take a taxi or walk to the museum. A single metro fare is EGP 5. Alternatively, several public buses stop near the Ibn Tulun Mosque; check local bus routes for the most convenient option. Bus fares typically range from EGP 2-5.

  • Walking

    If you are already visiting the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the Gayer-Anderson Museum is just a few steps away. Exit the mosque from the southeast corner, and you will find the museum entrance. The walk from the Sayyida Zeinab neighborhood is about 15 minutes.

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Discover more about Gayer-Anderson Museum

Step back in time at the Gayer-Anderson Museum, a unique cultural gem nestled beside the Mosque of Ibn Tulun in the Sayyida Zeinab district of Cairo. This museum isn't just a collection of artifacts; it's an immersive experience within two interconnected historic houses, Bayt al-Kritliyya (built in 1632) and Bayt Amna bint Salim (built in 1540). Major John Gayer-Anderson, a British army doctor with a passion for Egyptology and Oriental studies, meticulously restored these houses between 1935 and 1942. He furnished them with an eclectic mix of Islamic, Persian, and European artifacts, creating themed rooms that reflect different eras and styles. Upon his departure in 1942, Gayer-Anderson gifted the houses and their contents to the Egyptian government, and the museum officially opened in 1952. Explore the museum's maze-like interior, where each room offers a distinct atmosphere. Marvel at the Damascus Room's shimmering lacquer and gold, admire the Queen Anne Room's elaborate furniture, and be captivated by the Persian Room's exquisite tiling. Don't miss the mashrabiya gallery, offering a stunning view of the reception hall with its ornate ceiling, marble fountain, and cozy alcoves. The rooftop terrace provides a breathtaking panorama of Cairo's skyline, including the majestic Ibn Tulun Mosque. The Gayer-Anderson Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into 17th-century domestic architecture and the life of a passionate collector. It's a must-see for anyone interested in Islamic art, Egyptian history, and the captivating stories behind these historical homes.

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