Gayer-Anderson Museum, Cairo

The Gayer-Anderson Museum in Cairo houses the immense collection of artifacts from Asia and North Africa by Orientalist, Gayer-Anderson. It was the venue of some scenes from the James Bond film, 'The Spy Who Loved Me'.

Gayer-Anderson was a British army physician who made Cairo his home between 1935 and 1942. He purchased two Ottoman houses adjacent to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun and created a museum to house his collection of art and sculpture. He joined the two Ottoman houses with a covered bridge and restored the twisting passageways, jasmine-scented courtyards, and floor cushions. He left Egypt in 1942 when his health started failing and gave the museum to the Egyptian Government.

The Gayer-Anderson Museum is filled with Egyptian artifacts from the age of the Pharaohs and from other parts of Asia. The theme of each room is the lifestyle of the part of Asia or Africa. The Damascus Room has objects from Syria and there is a room with statuettes and figures from China. The English style library has Anderson’s collection of books. The rooftop terrace with carved enclosed Mashabreya windows and a small sundial offers spectacular views of Cairo.

Why You Should Visit:
The best place to discover Cairo's houses built in Islamic style and so many other things you never knew existed.
Different from the major historical sights but the glimpse into the lifestyle is well worth the visit.

Tip:
Make sure to check the hidden room and window (ask the guide) and take the time to appreciate the small details in the furniture.
Unfortunately, there are many stairs, making it difficult for people who have trouble ascending/descending multiple staircases.