Mummies in Bruges : an exhibition that unwraps the secrets of ancient Egypt

At the same time the « Tutankhamun, the Treasure of the Pharaoh » exhibition is opening in the Grande Halle de la Villette in Paris, the XPO Center in Bruges, Belgium is adding fuel to the Egyptomania fire as well. New discoveries in the Valley of the Kings, located near the city of Cairo, have led to renewed interest in the topic, sparking the imagination and fuelling fascination for the mysteries of ancient Egypt, its sphinxes, and its mummies.

Ancient Egypt comes to Bruges

Until 31 December 2019, « Mummies in Bruges » will provide an in-depth look into this civilization’s funeral rites along the Nile though 200 archaeological items, some of which have never been on display before, and nine human and animal mummies from over 2000 years ago. These precious pieces are presented in three rooms, each of which has a different theme, along with stunning painted sarcophagi and representations of gods.

Nothing can hide from the scanner’s cameras—not even behind a sarcophagus that is thousands of years old. © DR

Created during a time of glory long past, these statuettes bear witness to the era’s way of life. © DR

A voyage through time

Visitors will also be able to explore sculptures, offerings, magic scarabs, cards, papyri, the secrets of hieroglyphics, jewels, and the mummification process with help from modern technology. Everything you need to understand this unique culture while travelling back in time to the ancient world.

Wrapped in linens and bound with strips, this mummy has traversed centuries. © DR