Gayer-Anderson Museum: A Timeless Cairo Treasure
Explore Islamic Cairo's hidden gem: a 17th-century home filled with art, history, and stunning architecture. A journey through time awaits!
Step back in time at the Gayer-Anderson Museum, a unique cultural gem located adjacent to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun in Cairo. This museum is housed in two historic residences, Bayt al-Kritliyya (House of the Cretan Woman) built in 1632 and Bayt Amna bint Salim built in 1540, which were meticulously restored and connected by Major Robert Grenville Gayer-Anderson Pasha between 1935 and 1942. Gayer-Anderson, a British army doctor and avid art collector, filled the houses with an eclectic mix of Pharaonic, Islamic, and Asian artifacts, creating a fascinating blend of styles and cultures. Upon his departure in 1942, he bequeathed the houses and their contents to the Egyptian government, and the Gayer-Anderson Museum officially opened in 1952. Explore the museum's maze of rooms, each with its own distinct character. Marvel at the exquisite details of the Damascus Room, the Persian Room's stunning tiles, and the Queen Anne Room's elaborate furniture. Don't miss the mashrabiya gallery, offering a unique view of the reception hall with its ornate ceiling, marble fountain, and cozy alcoves. The museum also features a rooftop terrace that provides breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo's skyline. The Gayer-Anderson Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once inhabited these historic houses. It even served as a filming location for the James Bond film 'The Spy Who Loved Me'.
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist season.
- Hire a guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the museum's hidden details and legends.
- Dress respectfully, as the museum is located in a religious area.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's many rooms and exhibits.
A brief summary to Gayer-Anderson Museum
- 27H2+87Q، أحمد بن طولون طولون, El Sayeda Zeinab, As Sayedah, Cairo Governorate, EG
- +20223647822
Getting There
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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 mosque. A short taxi ride from downtown Cairo should cost approximately 30-50 EGP.
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Public Transport
To reach the museum by metro, take the Cairo Metro to the Sayyida Zeinab station, which is approximately 1 km west of the museum. From there, you can take a short taxi ride or walk to the museum. Alternatively, take bus #1 or #2 from Tahrir Square. The bus fare is around 2.50 EGP.
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Walking
If you are already visiting the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the Gayer-Anderson Museum is just a few steps away, located adjacent to the mosque's southeast corner. From the Church of St Sergius and Bacchus, it's approximately a 3 km walk that should take around 40 minutes.
