For centuries, people all over the world have been fascinated with Egypt and its Great Pyramid of Giza. But it’s not just this spectacular landmark that draws people in. It’s also the history, rituals, and more of those who lived here beginning around the 26th century BC. The good news is that you don’t have to travel all the way to Africa to experience this. There’s an amazing museum right here in Northern California that just might fit the bill – no passport required!

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, located in San Jose, is home to the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts on exhibit in western North America.

Michael Gray/Flickr

There were many ancient Egyptian and Non-Egyptian Periods throughout history.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum/Facebook Among them were the Ptolemaic, Early Dynastic, Coptic Byzantine, and the Old Kingdom, just to name a few.

The museum does a fantastic job of elucidating so much about the cultures present at that time, not only in Egypt but also in Babylonia and Mesopotamia.

Rocr//Flickr

The extensive collection of objects the Egyptians used in various aspects of their lives is mind-blowing and a testament to the museum’s mission to educate and preserve this important culture.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum/Facebook They each hold specific significance. For example, some relate to the After Life, which was a strong tenant of the Egyptian people.

Pottery and cooking utensils often served both utilitarian and spiritual purposes.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum/Facebook

Inside and out you will find a wealth of ancient artifacts, fine sculptures and statues, expertly preserved vessels, beautiful textiles, and more.

Michael Fraley/Flickr They each shed light on how the people here lived, worked, and worshipped.

To delve into Egypt’s remarkable past, present, and future, be sure to make the museum a stop along your Northern California travels.

Michael Gray/Flickr

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum/Facebook

Among them were the Ptolemaic, Early Dynastic, Coptic Byzantine, and the Old Kingdom, just to name a few.

Rocr//Flickr

They each hold specific significance. For example, some relate to the After Life, which was a strong tenant of the Egyptian people.

Michael Fraley/Flickr

They each shed light on how the people here lived, worked, and worshipped.

Have you been to The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience there.

If you enjoy museum musings, read about these 10 Little Known Museums In Northern California Where Admission Is Free.

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Address: Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, 1660 Park Ave, San Jose, CA 95191, USA