The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

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After years of travelling the world, immersing himself in diverse cultures and landscapes, the iconic sculptor Adam Henein returned to his roots in Egypt. Nestled in the heart of his homeland, he found solace in a home crafted to complement his minimalist sensibilities, a masterpiece conceived by the acclaimed Egyptian architect and fine artist Ramsis Wissa Wassef. Situated in Haraneya, this haven is now a museum compiling and commemorating Henein’s lifelong commitment to art and innovation.

Initiated and funded by Henein himself, the Adam Henein Museum is a testament to his lifelong dedication to art and his profound connection to his home country. Rather than selling his life’s work as a sculptor, Henein chose to gift it to the public, ensuring his legacy would last for generations to come. Nestled into the rural landscape of Al Haraneya village, once Henein’s home, the museum embodies the simplicity and richness of Egyptian life. In a time when Egyptian art was often limited to the pharaonic, Henein unapologetically showcased the beauty of modern everyday Egyptian existence, drawing inspiration from both the Delta and Upper Egypt regions.

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Henein was renowned as a sculptor since the 1950s and rose to fame for the inspiration his art drew from ancient Egypt. He was awarded the Luxor Studio Scholarship for Distinguished Artists in the West Bank and Qurna in 1954 and 1955 and led the restoration of the Great Sphinx of Giza from 1989 to 1998. After living in Paris, he returned to Egypt and started the International Sculpture Symposium in Aswan. He received many awards, including Egypt’s State Medal and the Mubarak Award. Henein’s art has been shown worldwide, from Alexandria to Rome, and displayed in world-class platforms like New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Image via Adam Henein Museum

Spanning three floors and 700 metres, the main museum building houses a diverse collection of Henein’s creations, including sculptures, drawings, paintings, prints, and textiles. Henein’s pieces harmonise with nature in the museum’s garden, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in art and the environment. Every aspect of the museum, overseen by Henein during its establishment, reflects his artistic vision and attention to detail. As visitors wander through its halls, they are guided not only by the exhibits but also by the enduring spirit of the artist, ensuring that Henein’s presence is felt long after his passing.

Henein’s museum is not only a home for his art but also a museum he oversaw and organised himself, making it deeply personal and intimate. The location is perfect for indulging in art and rural beauty through the eyes of a renowned artist, making it one of Cairo’s most unique museums and locations to visit.

Image via Adam Henein Museum