The Museo Egizio in Turin unveiled its newly redesigned Gallery of the Kings as part of its 200th-anniversary celebrations. Led by architects David Gianotten and Andreas Karavanas of OMA, in collaboration with Andrea Tabocchini Architecture, the renovation transforms the gallery into a luminous space that contextualizes the monumental ancient Egyptian statues. Moving away from the previous “black box” design, the new gallery emphasizes a symbolic transition from darkness to light, reflecting themes of creation central to ancient Egyptian culture.
Visitors begin their journey with digital projections illustrating the history of Karnak, where the statues originated, before entering the main exhibition halls. The revamped space highlights restored architectural features, such as vaults and high windows, which allow natural light to illuminate the statues as they would have been in their original context. Reflective aluminum walls provide historical context while adding an ethereal quality to the gallery.
The statues are arranged to evoke the progression through an ancient Egyptian temple. The first hall features sphinxes and Sekhmet statues, culminating with Seti II, symbolizing the temple’s outer spaces. The second hall mirrors the inner sanctum, showcasing kings and gods, including the famed statue of Ramesses II, alongside effigies of Ptah and Amun.
This redesign is part of a broader revitalization of the Museo Egizio, including a new covered courtyard and public spaces, set for completion in 2025. Andrea Tabocchini emphasized the project’s aim to honor the past while inspiring the future, a vision realized through the integration of historical and contemporary elements.
All photography by MARCO CAPPELLETTI, courtesy of OMA and ANDREA TABOCCHINI ARCHITECTURE
