If you’re heading to Cairo, make sure the Gayer-Anderson Museum is on your list! This place feels like another world — every corner tells a story from Egypt’s rich heritage. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time, surrounded by art, beauty, and authenticity.

Introduction to the Gayer-Anderson Museum

If you’re planning a trip to Cairo, you can’t miss visiting the Gayer-Anderson Museum — a place where history, art, and Egyptian spirit come together beautifully. 

This museum is one of the highlights of Islamic Cairo, located right next to Ibn Tulun Mosque, and it tells stories that go back hundreds of years.

The moment you step into the Gayer-Anderson Museum, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world — from the beautifully carved walls to the antique furniture and rare oriental artifacts, every corner takes you on a journey through time. 

The house was named after Major Gayer-Anderson, a British officer who lived in Egypt during the 20th century. Fascinated by Islamic art and culture, he collected treasures from Turkey, Iran, and Syria. 

Later, the house was turned into a museum displaying his incredible collection, making it one of the must-visit spots during any Cairo tour.

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Who Was Gayer-Anderson?

Major Robert Grenville Gayer-Anderson was quite an extraordinary British man — a mix of a doctor, an adventurer, and a passionate lover of Eastern art. 

He was born in 1881 in Ireland, with a twin brother named Thomas. From a young age, he had a restless curiosity and a love for travel and discovery. 

He studied medicine in London, but his life took a completely different turn when he joined the British Army as a medical officer.

In 1907, he arrived in Egypt as part of the Egyptian Army Medical Corps, and that’s where his real story began. He instantly fell in love with the country — its Islamic architecture, its old houses, and its vibrant culture. 

Soon, he started collecting antiques and artistic treasures from everywhere he traveled — Cairo, Damascus, Turkey, and Iran.

A British Soul That Found Home in Egypt

After his military service, he took on important civil positions in the Egyptian government. He was well-known for his deep connection with Egyptian society and was fluent in Arabic, living the Egyptian way of life as if he were one of its own people.

In the mid-1930s, he was granted permission to live in two historical houses next to Ibn Tulun Mosque, which later became known as the Gayer-Anderson Museum. 

He personally oversaw the restoration work, filled the rooms with his vast collection of oriental rugs, Ottoman furniture, rare paintings, and unique artifacts — creating a true masterpiece.

When his health began to decline in 1942, he decided to return to England. But before leaving, he gifted his entire house and collection to the Egyptian government as a token of gratitude for the country he loved so deeply. 

Since then, the house has stood as a museum in his name — a place that tells the story of a foreign man who loved Egypt with all his heart and immortalized that love in every corner of his home.

Where Is the Gayer-Anderson Museum Located?

If you’re planning your Egypt trip and looking for a real hidden gem in Cairo, you’ll find the Gayer-Anderson Museum right next to the famous Ibn Tulun Mosque, in the heart of Islamic Cairo — one of the city’s oldest and most authentic neighborhoods. 

The area is filled with narrow streets, historic houses, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.

The Gayer-Anderson Museum is made up of two beautifully preserved traditional houses connected by a small wooden bridge. It’s not just a museum — it’s an experience that captures the charm of old Cairo and the elegance of Islamic architecture.

Getting there is super easy

There are many ways like:

• If you’re staying downtown or in Zamalek, just grab a taxi or Uber and tell the driver “Ibn Tulun Mosque.” The museum is right next to it.
• If you prefer using Cairo Metro, the nearest station is Sayyida Zeinab, from which you can take a short taxi ride (around 10 minutes) straight to the museum.
• For travelers who love to explore on foot, walking through the surrounding streets is a unique experience — you’ll pass by historic mosques and traditional houses that showcase the spirit of old Cairo.

So, visiting the Gayer-Anderson Museum Cairo isn’t just a stop on your Egypt travel itinerary — it’s a little journey through time, a stroll into the city’s past where every corner whispers stories of art, culture, and history.

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The History of Gayer-Anderson Museum

Before it became one of the most fascinating museums in Cairo, the Gayer-Anderson Museum was originally two separate houses facing each other — each with a story that goes back to the 16th century. 

Today, this Cairo gem offers visitors not only artistic treasures but also a deep glimpse into more than 400 years of Egyptian heritage and Islamic architecture that connects the past with the present.

The Origins of the Historic Houses

The Gayer-Anderson Museum stands beside the iconic Ibn Tulun Mosque, one of Cairo’s oldest and most famous landmarks. 

The first house was built around 1540 AD by a man named Abdel Qader El-Haddad, and over the years, it became known as Beit Amna bint Salem, after its last resident.

The second house was built in 1632 AD by El-Hajj Mohamed Ibn El-Hajj Salem El-Gazzar, and later owned by a lady from the Greek island of Crete — which is why it’s still called Beit Al-Kritliyya or the House of the Cretan Woman.

The two houses were later connected by a wooden bridge on the upper floor, creating a single, beautifully designed mansion that blends Ottoman elegance with traditional Islamic design. 

When the Egyptian government began restoring old houses around the mosque in the 1930s, these two buildings stood out for their exceptional condition and rare details. They were carefully preserved to protect this unique part of Cairo’s cultural history.

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From Historic Home to a Timeless Cairo Museum

In 1935, British officer Major Gayer-Anderson Pasha fell in love with the beauty of the houses and requested to live there. 

The Egyptian government agreed, on the condition that he would restore them and later hand them back, complete with their contents.

Gayer-Anderson personally renovated the houses — adding electricity, plumbing, and an artistic touch that revived the place. 

He decorated every room with rare carpets, antique furniture, Islamic art, Persian rugs, and Syrian woodwork. Every piece inside reflected his passion for Middle Eastern art and culture.

He lived there until 1942, when his health forced him to return to England. Before leaving, he gifted the entire house — along with all its valuable collections — to the Egyptian government, as a token of gratitude to the country he loved.

Since then, the place has officially become known as the Gayer-Anderson Museum, one of the best museums in Egypt and a must-visit spot for anyone exploring things to do in Cairo. 

Architecture and Design in the Gayer-Anderson Museum

When you step inside the Gayer-Anderson Museum in Cairo, it feels like you’ve walked straight into a story from the past — every corner tells a piece of history. 

The museum perfectly combines Islamic architecture with Ottoman design, creating a masterpiece that represents the charm of Old Cairo.

This isn’t just an old house; it’s a true work of art that captures the spirit of Cairo’s Islamic architecture and the elegance of traditional Egyptian homes.

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Islamic and Ottoman Influences

The Gayer-Anderson Museum was built following the classic layout of old Islamic houses in Cairo. 

You’ll notice tall arches, beautiful wooden mashrabiyas (lattice windows) that bring in light and air while maintaining privacy, and a spacious open courtyard in the middle — the heart of the house in Islamic architecture.

Every wall and ceiling is full of stunning geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy, reflecting the artistic touch of the Islamic era.

Ottoman design also plays a big role — you’ll see large carved wooden doors and windows, elegant furniture inlaid with mother-of-pearl, and rich decorations that give the place a royal atmosphere.

The blend of Islamic and Ottoman styles makes the museum one of the most beautiful examples of historic Cairo architecture.

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Layout and Structure of the House

The layout of the Gayer-Anderson House was designed with both comfort and elegance in mind. The ground floor features narrow hallways leading to a central courtyard surrounded by rooms — each serving a different purpose, from guest reception to living quarters.

The upper floor showcases incredible craftsmanship — hand-painted ceilings, intricate wooden screens, and soft natural lighting coming through the mashrabiyas.

Built from stone, brick, and finely carved wood, the house has stood strong for centuries without losing its charm.

Its smart structure perfectly reflects traditional Egyptian house design, which was known for balancing simplicity, functionality, and artistic beauty.

Unique Decorative Features

One of the most captivating aspects of the Gayer-Anderson Museum is its interior decoration. Every corner is filled with artistic details that tell stories of different cultures and eras.

You’ll find Persian carpets, Ottoman chandeliers, copper artifacts, and rare collectibles that Major Gayer-Anderson personally gathered from countries like Turkey, Syria, and Iran.

The color palette across the walls and furniture is perfectly balanced, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Each room carries the personal touch of Gayer-Anderson himself — a man who deeply loved Eastern art and wanted to preserve it for the world to see.

That’s what makes this museum one of the best heritage attractions in Cairo and a must-visit spot for anyone fascinated by Islamic architecture and oriental design.

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Museum Collections and Highlights

The Gayer-Anderson Museum in Cairo is like a hidden treasure chest, full of fascinating artifacts that reflect Egypt’s cultural blend of East and West. 

Every corner of the house tells a story — from elegant furniture to historical art pieces collected from Egypt, Syria, and Turkey.

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Furniture and Household Items

One of the most striking things about the museum is its antique furniture, which perfectly shows how Egyptian homes looked during the Ottoman era. 

The wooden chairs, carved tables, and brass lamps were all carefully chosen by Major Gayer-Anderson himself. 

These pieces combine Islamic craftsmanship with European influences, giving visitors a real sense of life during that time.

Ancient Egyptian Artifacts

The museum also showcases a small but captivating collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts. 

From pharaonic statues and amulets to everyday tools, each item connects the past with the present. These collections highlight how Anderson was passionate about preserving Egypt’s rich heritage and history.

Orientalist Art and Textiles

Walking through the museum, you’ll also find:

• Beautiful Orientalist paintings
• Persian carpets
• Damascus textiles 

They are all representing a mix of Islamic art and Ottoman design. One of the most famous rooms, the Damascus Room, is completely decorated with hand-painted wood panels, intricate floral patterns, and Arabic calligraphy.

 Another highlight is the Persian Room, which showcases elegant Persian-style furniture and colorful tiles, giving visitors a taste of Middle Eastern luxury.

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Rare Personal Objects and Documents

What makes this museum even more special are the personal belongings of Gayer-Anderson, such as:

• Handwritten notes
• Letters
• Old photographs. 

These items give visitors a glimpse into his personal life, his travels, and his deep admiration for Egyptian culture.

The Museum in Pop Culture

If you’re searching for a museum that’s more than just a display of antiques, the Gayer-Anderson Museum is exactly that — a place where history meets entertainment and modern pop culture.

This Cairo gem became famous not only among history lovers but also among movie fans curious about “where was that scene filmed?” You’ll find the answer right here, in the heart of old Cairo — a spot that appeared in one of the world’s most iconic movies and became a symbol of cultural fusion between heritage and art.

Filming Location for “The Spy Who Loved Me”

If you’re a fan of James Bond movies, you’ll love knowing that this museum was actually used as a filming location for “The Spy Who Loved Me” in 1977. 

In the movie, Bond (played by Roger Moore) enters from the Mosque of Ibn Tulun into a beautifully preserved house — and that house is none other than the Gayer-Anderson Museum. Its rooftop, courtyard, and rooms all appear in the movie.

So, when you visit today, you can literally say: “I’m standing where James Bond once stood!” That makes it a must-see attraction for both movie buffs and culture enthusiasts exploring Cairo.

Appearances in Egyptian Cinema

The museum isn’t just famous internationally — it’s also been featured in several Egyptian films that showcase the charm of old Cairo.

Its Islamic architecture, intricate woodwork, and natural light make it the perfect filming location for historical and cultural movies.

So, visiting the museum isn’t only about stepping into history — it’s about stepping into a living movie set that has witnessed decades of cinematic storytelling.

Visitor Experience Inside the Museum

Now that you know its role in pop culture, let’s talk about your visitor experience inside the museum — the sights, sounds, and sensations that make this visit unforgettable.

Interactive Exhibits and Guided Stories

From the moment you step inside, you’ll find friendly guides who tell you stories about the museum’s owner, Major Robert Grenville Gayer-Anderson, and his unique collection.

These stories feel real and personal — not just historical facts. Some rooms have digital displays or audio recordings that explain the history and design details, making the Gayer-Anderson Museum tour a more interactive and engaging experience compared to other Cairo museums.

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Photography and Room Exploration

The museum is a dream for photographers. Each room is beautifully arranged — from the Damascus Room with its stunning wooden ceilings to the Persian Room filled with oriental carpets and antique furniture.

However, keep in mind that some rooms may have photography restrictions or require permission, so it’s best to ask the staff first.

Exploring the narrow passageways, carved wooden doors, and mashrabiya windows makes you feel like you’re traveling through time in the heart of Cairo.

Don’t forget to ask for the museum’s “photo spot” — many visitors do, and the staff are usually happy to help.

Souvenir Shopping and Museum Shop

Before leaving, stop by the Museum Shop located near the exit. You’ll find souvenirs inspired by the museum’s design — keychains, magnets, mini wall art, miniature Persian rugs, and postcards with the Gayer-Anderson Museum logo or photos.

If you love taking a piece of your trip home, this is the perfect place to grab a memorable keepsake.

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Practical Information for Visitors

Before visiting the Gayer-Anderson Museum, it’s good to know a few simple details that will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable—especially if it’s your first time exploring Old Cairo.

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Opening Hours & Ticket Prices

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, making it convenient for both solo travelers and tour groups.

Tickets are easily available at the entrance, and the pricing is quite reasonable. Here’s the updated ticket price list:

Ticket prices may occasionally change. For the latest updates, check the official website,  egymonuments.gov.eg

Discover Cairo with Egypt Tour Online – A Unique Experience at the Gayer-Anderson Museum

If you’ve ever wanted to step back in time and feel the spirit of old Cairo, Egypt Tour Online brings you a one-of-a-kind experience.

Through your visit to the Gayer-Anderson Museum, you’ll explore a stunning blend of Islamic art, Ottoman design, and authentic oriental charm — a journey that feels like time travel.

Why Choose Egypt Tour Online for Your Trip?

• Professional Organization: Every tour is carefully planned so you can enjoy every moment without stress or hassle.
• Expert Guides: Learn about every corner of the museum — from the Damascus Room to the Persian Room — through engaging and informative stories.
• Flexible Booking: Easily book your Cairo day tours online anytime, from anywhere.
• Variety of Packages: Whether you want a private tour or a small group experience, we’ve got the perfect plan for you.
• 24/7 Customer Support: We take care of every detail of your trip from booking until you’re safely back.

What Makes Us Different?

We don’t just offer a regular tour — we give you an immersive experience where you can see, hear, and feel the soul of Cairo in every corner of the Gayer-Anderson Museum.

Book Your Tour Now

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Start your journey with Egypt Tour Online and explore the Gayer-Anderson Museum like never before.