17/06/2026
We are looking forward to seeing you all tonight at 6 for Azza Ezzat's talk, Egyptian Perceptions of Antiquities (1869-1925)! We work on a first-come, first-served basis as the number of seats is limited. We open our doors at 5:30 and close them at 6:15 or earlier when the lecture room reaches its full capacity.
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This lecture examines Egyptian perceptions of antiquities between 1869 and 1925 under foreign control, questioning whether such perceptions were used as a justification for the marginalization of Egyptians within the field of Egyptology. It explores various attitudes toward heritage during this period, including the exploitation and rejection of antiquities through forgery, looting, and religious opposition to ancient remains.
Particular attention is given to the first “lost” generation of Egyptian Egyptologists and their attempts to Arabize Egyptology despite criticism and institutional obstacles. Finally, the lecture discusses later achievements, including the establishment of archaeology and Egyptology studies at Cairo University, the foundation of Egypt’s first archaeological society in 1925, and Egyptian efforts to improve the condition and historical knowledge of dragomans (interpreters).
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Dr. Azza Ezzat is currently the Head of the Research and Publication Section at the Writing and Scripts Center, Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Earned her PhD in Egyptology from the Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Guidance Department, Alexandria University, in 2015. Dr. Ezzat currently conducting research on the methodology of Ahmed Kamal Pasha’s Hieroglyphic–Arabic–French Dictionary. She is a member of the General Assembly of the 33 Principal Partners and Founding Members of the Hellenic Institute of Egyptology, Athens. She has been selected as a member of the National Network of Science Centers and Museums (SciHer Network) at the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology. She is also a member in the Current Research in Egyptology CRE Editing Committee.
