Restoration of Khufu's Boat Unveils Ancient History at Grand Egyptian Museum
In a remarkable endeavor that bridges the past and present, restoration teams at the Grand Egyptian Museum have commenced the reassembly of a rare pharaonic boat belonging to King Khufu. This operation, which allows live public observation, is among the largest archaeological restorations in contemporary history.
The boat measures approximately 42 meters in length and comprises around 1,650 wooden pieces made from cedar. These components are being carefully assembled within the exhibition hall, alongside another boat that was previously restored and has been on display for several years.
The two boats were unearthed in 1954 from two pits located on the southern side of the Great Pyramid, with the extraction of their wooden parts beginning in 2014.
Officials overseeing the project estimate that the reassembly will take about four years, given the delicate nature of the artifacts and the intricate work required. Each step of the process is meticulously documented to ensure the boat is restored to its original condition after more than 4,500 years.
Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, emphasized the significance of the restoration, calling it "one of the most important restoration projects of the 21st century." He noted that visitors are not merely observing a technical task but are partaking in a historic moment that redefines a chapter of ancient Egyptian civilization.
The precise function of these boats is still debated among historians. Some suggest they were intended to carry King Khufu's body during his funeral rites, while others propose they served as vessels for his symbolic journey to the afterlife, accompanied by the sun god Ra.
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is the largest archaeological museum globally, housing approximately 50 thousand artifacts, including the complete collection of treasures belonging to King Tutankhamun. Located near the Pyramids of Giza, museum officials aim to boost tourism and the Egyptian economy by offering a distinctive cultural and educational experience that connects visitors with the monumental achievements of human civilization.
