Egyptian Museum Marks World Photography Day with Italian Lens Exhibition

As part of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities’ celebrations of World Photography Day, which falls on August 19 each year, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir inaugurated a temporary exhibition titled “Ancient Egypt’s Magic Through the Italian Lens: Antonio Beato, Giovanni Farassani, and Enrico Leichter (1860–1940).”

The opening was attended by Dr. Ali Abdel-Halim Ali, Director General of the Egyptian Museum, Dr. Giuseppe Cecere, General Coordinator of the Italian Archaeological Center at the Italian Cultural Institute in Cairo, and Ms. Mariella La Rocca, Deputy Ambassador of Italy to Egypt.

The exhibition showcases the works of three pioneering Italian photographers who documented Egypt’s ancient monuments during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their images form a unique visual archive that captures the splendor of ancient Egypt, as well as scenes of Egyptian countryside and daily life at the time.

Dr. Ali Abdel-Halim described the exhibition as “a window into time and a living record preserving the features of the past,” noting that celebrating World Photography Day in the heart of Cairo reflects the city’s enduring role as a source of inspiration for photographers and artists across generations. He emphasized that the event is the fruit of collaboration between the Egyptian Museum and the Italian Cultural Institute, highlighting the deep historical and cultural ties between Egypt and Italy.

For his part, Dr. Giuseppe Cecere affirmed that Egypt has always been, and continues to be, a wellspring of inspiration for Italian artists. He explained that the exhibited works are not merely photographs but artistic visions that allow visitors to travel through time and rediscover Egypt through the eyes of these pioneers.

Ms. Mariella La Rocca, Deputy Ambassador of Italy, along with Italian Consul Mr. Federico Novellino, praised the significant role of Italian missions and photographers in documenting Egypt’s heritage, commending the distinguished cultural partnership between the two countries.

The opening also featured a short film titled “Antonio Beato’s Images: A New Vision Through Artificial Intelligence,” which reimagines the photographer’s works using modern technology to offer viewers an innovative visual experience. In addition, archaeological researcher and archival photography expert Francis Amin delivered an insightful lecture on the lives and contributions of the three photographers.

The event was attended by directors of Egyptian museums, Egyptologists, public figures, and enthusiasts, who underscored the exhibition’s value as a bridge linking art, history, and heritage.

The exhibition is held in Hall No. (18) on the ground floor of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir. It is open daily to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and will run for three months.