Upgrading services: Egypt’s Min. of Tourism & Antiquities removes backyard Kiosk of Baron Palace

CAIRO – 4 February 2021: The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities is working to implement their vision for the development of tourism and archaeological areas and sites.

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has removed the controversial kiosk in the Baron's palace backyard within the framework of its policy to develop museums, archaeological sites and historical palaces, and to improve the quality of tourism services.

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities had previously announced that it was working to make better services available at Baron Empain Palace to provide an integrated cultural experience for its visitors.

Backyard Kiosk of Baron Empain Palace in Heliopolis during the lifting process - ET

Assistant Minister for the Development of Archaeological Sites and Museums Iman Zeidan explained that the project includes using the basement of the palace as a creative cultural center (Cultural Hub) to hold workshops and art exhibitions and host cultural salons to raise the archaeological awareness of citizens.

The center's first activity was a photographic exhibition held in January to highlight the masterpieces of the Museum of Islamic Art collections, which have artistic, historical and cultural links to the Baron Palace, the period of its establishment, and the artistic styles that adorn it.

The Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities is currently working to provide a distinguished service to visitors that reflects the historical atmosphere of the early twentieth century, in the back garden of the palace and around the open spaces surrounding it, which include a cafeteria, an upscale restaurant and a simple-style gift house designed as a light structure system with a disassembly and installation system.

This came after the approval of the Permanent Committee for Islamic Antiquities, using natural materials that match the archaeological, historical and artistic value of the palace and the panorama.

Zeidan confirmed that all added elements  would not change the composition and beauty of the palace, and that all services are set up in the back yard.