24 September 2019
If you have not already heard the news, we are very excited that the Tutankhamun 'Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh' Final World Tour will be at London's Saatchi Gallery for a limited time from November 2019 to May 2020.
Offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the glittering treasures of Tutankhamun with over 150 original artefacts, you will be able to explore the Pharaoh’s personal belongings as you follow his passage into everlasting life.
So whether you are already planning to experience this fascinating visit on your next London trip, or are simply looking for inspiration, take a look at our top five reasons this incredible exhibition should not be missed.
Following the end of the exhibition in May 2020, many of the artefacts will be returned to Cairo for permanent display in the Grand Egyptian Museum.
It is also the largest collection of King Tutankhamun's treasures ever to travel out of Egypt, so this is a rare and unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking history of ancient Egypt, potentially for the first and final time. It is also the only exhibition in the world to feature authentic objects from the tomb of Tutankhamun.
When considering the mysterious web of unanswered questions and controversies surrounding Tutankhamun’s life and death, it is no surprise that this exhibition will spark debate among your group.
Whether it’s finding out who the Pharaoh’s family were, the purpose of certain artefacts or the mysterious circumstances surrounding the Pharaoh’s death, there is so much to learn and uncover. Plus, there is always the added intrigue of ‘The Mummy’s Curse’ and whether it was real or not!
Alongside an array of dazzling historic treasures including the Pharaoh’s wooden shrine, ceremonial shield, assorted statues and military trumpets, you will also have the opportunity to witness the world famous gold coffinette.
The beautifully inlaid casket painted in glittering blues and gold was used to store the liver of Tutankhamun and is an iconic symbol of ancient Egypt. As a highlight of the exhibition, it’s a truly awe-inspiring sight; evoking a sense of the true power, influence and spiritual significance of Tutankhamun and all the Ancient-Egyptian rulers.
Not only is the exhibition showcasing worldwide for the final time, but the artefacts also hold a distinct connection with London and British history on a broader scale.
Tutankhamun’s tomb of treasures date back 3000 years, first uncovered by London archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. At the time, the incredible discovery ignited 'Egyptomania' in England, permeating the art and architecture of the 1920’s with ancient Egyptian motifs.
It is therefore quite fitting that the exhibition is located in Kensington, where Howard Carter was originally born, as well as where he died prematurely in 1939.
The exhibition is a self-guided tour, so you can spend as much time as you like exploring the variety of artefacts showcased. Average visits last approximately 1-1½ hours, so it's a perfect activity for slotting in your free time, or before your evening theatre show!
This is a highly popular limited-time exhibition, so please contact us early if you are interested in adding this fascinating visit to your London trip.
If you’d like to find out more about study trips to London, get in touch with our team of travel experts today.