Set against the backdrop of Aswan's serene landscapes and the Nile's flowing waters, the Aswan Museum on Elephantine Island stands as a significant cultural edifice, blending the rich history of Egypt with the enchanting allure of Nubia. Established in 1912 by British Egyptologist Cecil Mallaby Firth, this museum has evolved into a repository of artifacts, offering a narrative of civilization from the Nubian region, especially during the monumental construction of the Aswan Dam.
The museum's journey from its inception to becoming a beacon of Egyptology has been marked by significant milestones, including the inauguration of a new department in 1990. This segment dedicated to Elephantine's discoveries, presents an array of found objects including utensils, weapons, pottery, and even mummies, hence encapsulating the daily life and...itual importance within this unique island civilization.
Adjacent to the museum, amidst ongoing excavations, lies the Ruins of Abu, hinting at the continuous unveiling of history that the area witnesses. Such proximity not only enriches the museum's holdings but also connects visitors directly with the active archaeological heartbeat of Aswan.
The museum's contents are as diverse as they are profound. Among its treasures are statues of both royalties and commoners, signifying the societal structure, with mummies of the ram symbolizing the god Khnum highlighting the spiritual beliefs held. Architectural elements, sarcophagi, and funerary paintings offer a glimpse into the architectural acumen and the aesthetic sensibilities of the time. Remarkably, the museum's collaboration with the German Archaeological Institute has expanded its collection significantly, leading to the establishment of an annex that houses fascinating finds from the Elephantine excavation endeavors.
Egyptian and Roman artifacts discovered while building the Aswan Dam are stored here. You can also see the Temple of Khnum and the Temple of Satet. There are people who forcefully explain artifacts to visitors and try to take money.
Reem H.
3
Reviewed: 2024-04-18
Passable but not entirely worth it. It's basically a room.
P.s.
Here are some funny looking things inside
Figen Tuna
4
Reviewed: 2024-01-18
Although I pay entrance fee, I feel weird that every staff request tips in every step . 🤷‍♀️
sarra arfaoui
5
Reviewed: 2023-12-21
This museum is so beautiful!
I learned so much. It’s surrounded by so many open air temples (Hourus, khanum ..) and also a jewish temple. It has a great view of Assouan.
But the most interesting thing is the Nile meter. It was a great discovery and I liked it so much.
Mike Aoun
3
Reviewed: 2023-06-19
Not bad place. It was mostly out in the open and the sun was scorching hot although it was still april so the humidity made us do it more quickly. The main museum is small and pretty dusty, but i enjoyed crossing the nile to go there mostly.
Seokjin Ham 
Reem H. 
Figen Tuna 
sarra arfaoui 
Mike Aoun 
