Inspired by the ancient Egyptian concept of Ma’at, the film promotes awareness and responsibility towards heritage.
The Grand Egyptian Museum has launched a new animated film, “Guardians of Our History: The Right Way to Visit the Museum”, as part of the “Guardians of History at the Grand Egyptian Museum” campaign introduced in February. It aims to raise awareness of museum etiquette and encourage the protection of Egypt’s cultural heritage.
The two- to three-minute film combines animation and storytelling to deliver accessible, engaging messages for visitors of all ages. It draws on Ma’at, the ancient Egyptian concept embodying balance, harmony and responsibility, connecting these values with positive behaviour during museum visits.
Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy said the film supported the ministry’s efforts to strengthen public awareness of heritage protection and shared responsibility. Preserving antiquities, he said, goes beyond conservation and restoration to include respect for archaeological sites, museums and their collections.
He emphasized the importance of modern creative and technological tools in reaching different audiences, particularly children and young people. Such approaches help raise generations aware of their heritage’s value and reinforce museums’ cultural and educational role in building awareness and belonging.
Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim, CEO of the Grand Egyptian Museum Authority, said the film presented museum etiquette innovatively, moving beyond rules and instructions to connect positive behaviour with the human and cultural values of ancient Egypt.
Created by Egyptian film producer Hisham Soliman and produced by Hama Film Production, it follows visitors of different ages from planning their trip and arriving at the museum to exploring galleries and public spaces. Everyday situations highlight respect for antiquities and fellow visitors, orderly queuing, safe movement, cleanliness, quiet voices and avoiding flash photography.
Ghoneim said the film sought to show that good museum etiquette reflects individual awareness and responsibility, and that every visitor is a partner in preserving this heritage for future generations.
Soliman said the film delivered its message through a contemporary creative approach that made museum etiquette more relatable. Ma’at provided a way to incorporate ancient Egyptian values into an animated story combining entertainment and education and connecting past and present for different generations.
The film will be shown on the museum’s digital platforms and social media as part of the campaign’s ongoing activities. These also include media materials, visitor signage and educational programmes inside the museum, developed with partners to broaden awareness and encourage positive behaviour at museums and archaeological sites.
