Russian Cultural Participation Celebrates 122 Years of Manial Palace

Manial Palace hosted a distinguished celebration marking the 122nd anniversary of its establishment, featuring prominent Russian participation through the Russian Cultural Center in Cairo and the Egyptian-Russian Friendship Association, in the presence of a number of cultural and diplomatic figures.

The celebration was attended by Dr. Ahmed Hamida, Head of the Museums Sector at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities; Dr. Ashraf Aboul-Yazid, Head of the Central Administration for Specialized Museums; Dr. Vadim Zaichikov, Director of Russian Cultural Centers in Egypt; and Dr. Ezzat Saad, former Egyptian Ambassador to Moscow and Vice President of the Egyptian-Russian Friendship Association.

Mohamed El-Bardini, Director of the Manial Palace Museum, opened the event by welcoming the guests and praising the strong Russian participation. Dr. Ahmed Hamida highlighted the historical importance of Manial Palace and its distinguished status among Egyptian and international museums. Dr. Ashraf Aboul-Yazid emphasized that Egypt’s historical heritage belongs to all humanity.

In his speech, Dr. Vadim Zaichikov affirmed that art and culture represent a universal human language that transcends political and geographical boundaries. He noted that hosting this event at the historic Manial Palace is a vivid example of how culture can strengthen relations between the Egyptian and Russian peoples and enhance human and cultural ties between the two countries. He also expressed his delight at Russia’s participation in this historic event held in the world-renowned Golden Hall.

The evening featured a rich artistic program, including performances by the “Kalinka” Choir, led by Maestro Louisa Bledzhyants, presenting a selection of Russian folk songs. In a special surprise for the audience, the choir performed the Arabic song “Sahr El-Layaly.” The program also included Russian folk art performances and contemporary dance pieces by students of the Dance Studio under the supervision of Eileen Martirosyan, as well as an expressive performance by students of Heliopolis University, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected the cultural value of the occasion.

The ceremony also included honoring several figures in recognition of their contributions to strengthening cultural relations between nations. Dr. Ahmed Hamida awarded the museum shield to Dr. Vadim Zaichikov. Dr. Ibrahim Kamel, President of the Egyptian-Russian Friendship Association, was also honored, with Dr. Manal Radwan, Head of the Association’s Media Committee, receiving the award on his behalf. In addition, Sherif Gad, Director of Cultural Activities at the Russian Cultural Center in Cairo and Secretary-General of the Friendship Association, was honored.

The celebration was attended by a large number of high-profile diplomatic and cultural figures, including Saleh Mutlu Şen, the Turkish Ambassador to Cairo, Dr. Asia Turtcheva, Cultural Attaché at the Russian Embassy, along with a delegation from the Egyptian-Russian Friendship Association and a large delegation from Heliopolis University.

The celebration concluded in a joyful atmosphere inside the Golden Hall, one of the most famous halls of Egypt’s historic museums.

Manial Palace is one of Egypt’s most significant heritage landmarks. It was built in the early 20th century by Prince Mohamed Ali, son of Khedive Tawfik and grandson of Khedive Ismail, as his private residence, reflecting his deep passion for arts and history. The palace is distinguished by its unique architectural style, harmoniously blending various Islamic architectural elements, including Ottoman, Persian, and Andalusian styles, making it an iconic symbol of Egyptian cultural heritage.