Imhotep Museum

The Imhotep Museum stands at the entrance to the Saqqara necropolis, south of Cairo. It is named after Imhotep, the architect of King Djoser’s Step Pyramid, the first large stone building in history, which rises just beyond the museum. It is the best place to start a visit to Saqqara, as it explains what you will see on the site.

What to see

Six halls display statues, coffins, painted reliefs, everyday objects and architectural pieces excavated at Saqqara. Highlights include the base of a statue of Djoser carved with Imhotep’s name and titles, and a recreated tomb with a mummy, wooden coffin and funeral furniture. One hall honours the French architect Jean-Philippe Lauer, who spent much of his life restoring the Step Pyramid complex and whose library and papers are on show.

Visiting tips

• Allow 45 minutes in the museum, then several hours for the pyramids and tombs.
• Photography with phones is free; flash, tripods and monopods are not allowed.
• Large bags, umbrellas and food must be left in the cloakroom.

Getting there

Saqqara is about 30 km south of central Cairo. There is no direct public transport, so most people come by taxi, ride-hailing car or on a tour that combines Saqqara with Memphis and Dahshur. The museum entry is included in the Saqqara site ticket.

Last checked October 2026. Sources: egymonuments.gov.eg, mota.gov.eg, egyptindependent.com.