Barcelona is famous for its rich cultural offerings, and the Egyptian Museum occupies a prominent place in this landscape. With over 30 years of history, this museum, managed by the Clos Archaeological Foundation, has not only been a space for exhibitions but has also spearheaded initiatives for social, educational, and cultural change. Since its opening in 1992, it has brought together more than 1,260 original pieces that allow visitors to travel back in time and delve into ancient Egypt. To date, more than 5.5 million people have passed through its halls, as reported in an impact study conducted for the museum by Stone Soup Consulting.
A space for learning and discovery
One of the aspects that the Egyptian Museum has sought to emphasize since its foundation is education. Each year, more than 35,000 children and adolescents participate in educational activities designed to spark their curiosity about history and culture. These initiatives include workshops, guided tours, and educational programs tailored to different ages and levels of knowledge. Since its inception, over 282,000 students have taken part in these sessions, many of which are endorsed by the Pedagogical Innovation Council of Barcelona.
To make them more accessible, the museum awards 500 scholarships annually to schools with fewer resources, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to discover the richness of ancient Egypt. Mariàngela Taulé, General Director of the Museum, emphasizes the need to include children of diverse abilities and backgrounds, “we cannot turn our backs on society.”
Its own academy
Through training programs such as the School of Egyptology, the museum has educated 250 students between 2001 and 2009, many of whom are still working in the fields of archaeology and Egyptology today. Additionally, its lectures, exhibitions, and workshops have attracted over 140,000 adults, solidifying its role as a place of continuous learning. “The museum plants a seed in every visitor, encouraging their curiosity and deepening their interest in history,” says Judit Simón, an Egyptologist at the center.
The museum and its spirit of social transformation
One of the museum's achievements has been its ability to adapt to the changing needs of society. Throughout all these years, they have placed great importance on being able to interact directly with pieces and replicas from archaeological sites through activities such as the Palau-solità i Plegamans Archaeological Campus, where children can become “archaeologists for a day.”
The work of the museum has also been internationally recognized. Over the years, it has led more than 94 traveling exhibitions in countries such as Colombia, China, and Portugal, strengthening Barcelona's position as a global center of knowledge. In the words of Javier Martínez, a Ph.D. in History from UAB, “The Museum has put Barcelona on the Egyptological map, enriching its cultural and touristic offerings.”
Citizenship and tourism
The Egyptian Museum not only attracts scholars and students but also local and international tourists. With an average of 250,000 visitors per year, this space has become a cultural meeting point.
In addition, the museum actively collaborates with local and international institutions, creating synergies that benefit both the city and its citizens. These initiatives have boosted the brand “Barcelona” as a top cultural tourist destination, with a clear positive impact on the city.
A look into the future
The journey of the Egyptian Museum of Barcelona is an example of the impact that a cultural institution can have on society. Looking ahead, the Museum faces the challenge of maintaining its spirit of constant renewal, expanding its educational reach, and continuing to serve as a bridge between history and citizenship. With a 30-year history, it continues to demonstrate that culture is not just a reflection of the past but also a tool for building a future that affects us all.