‘A new look at a familiar topic’: Royal BC Museum opens new ancient Egypt exhibit

The Royal BC Museum (RBCM) has unveiled its latest exhibit that allows visitors to travel back in time to ancient Egypt, one of history’s most fascinating civilizations. 

Ancient Egypt: Obsessed with Life explores how for the ancient Egyptians, life and death were just the beginning of an eternal journey. 

The exhibit allows a unique look at the rituals, belief systems and artistry that supported this complex civilization’s transition from one existence to the afterlife.

“We’re thrilled to welcome guests to a new look at a familiar topic,” said Allison Bond, recently appointed CEO of the RBCM. 

“Over the past 25 years, ancient Egypt has consistently been among our most popular exhibition themes, so we know people are still interested and still feel like they have more to learn about this incredibly complex ancient civilization.”

The massive exhibit takes up 9,000 square-feet on the RBCM’s second floor, and features around 250 original ancient objects. 

Visitors can also experience immersive films, ambient sounds and scientifically reconstructed ancient Egyptian scents while perusing the artifacts. 

The goal of the ambiance and mixed media experience crafted for this exhibit is to provide intimate, atmospheric spaces to recreate a journey through death, rebirth and the afterlife, says the RBCM. 

Ancient Egypt: Obsessed with Life concentrates on the classical pharaonic period. 

This period, known as the Age of the Pyramids, took place from around 2686 to 1069 BCE, and includes objects from the Late and Greco-Roman periods. 

Ancient Egypt: Obsessed with Life is divided into four themes: mummification, the underworld, the grave and the afterlife. 

Each incorporates objects, such as embellished coffins, powerful grave goods, jewelry and everyday objects once intended to accompany souls into eternity.

Furthermore, the staged environments, digital technology, soundscapes, hands-on interactives and a virtual 3D ride through the Egyptian underworld help to create physical experiences designed for the whole family.

Ancient Egypt: Obsessed with Life officially opened to the public on Friday, June 5th, and runs until January 3rd, 2027.