The Ancient Egypt Gallery reopens at Castello Sforzesco

After a long wait, the Sforzesco Castle in Milan returns one of its most precious treasures to the city. From tomorrow, the new Ancient Egypt Gallery, a completely revamped exhibition that combines the millenary fascination of the pharaohs with a contemporary, immersive display.

With about 330 exhibits (of which 80 have never been exhibited before) out of a total collection of more than 3,000 pieces, the Gallery tells the story of Egypt from the 4th millennium BC to the 5th century AD.

A display evoking the great temples

The design, by architect Markus Scherer, transforms the hall into a solemn space reminiscent of the hypostyle halls of Egyptian temples. Large full-height showcases act as display “columns”, while the skilful use of lighting and Brera stone creates an atmosphere of enveloping penumbra, capable of enhancing the details of sarcophagi, papyri, amulets and canopic jars.

What not to miss on the new route

The tour runs through six thematic sections exploring daily life, the world of the gods and the mystery of the afterlife. Prominent among the masterpieces are:

• The Statue of Amenemhat III: one of the most valuable pieces, the result of excavations in Milan in the 1930s.
• The Papyrus Busca: an almost 7-metre long, recently restored roll, displayed in a special case with push-button lighting.
• The Book of the Dead: the papyri of the scribe Hornefer, magical guides for the journey into the underworld.
• The reconstruction of the chapel of the goddess Renenutet, which brings the extraordinary findings of the Fayum back to life.

Innovation and Accessibility

The new Gallery is not just an exhibition of exhibits, but an interactive experience. Thanks to the’PERVIVAL App (developed by the Politecnico di Milano), visitors can discover the secrets of funeral rituals in a dynamic way.

• Special opening: The 14 and 15 March, don't miss the appointments with the museum mediators for a participatory experience of stories and activities that connect ancient Egypt to our contemporary world.