Sydney’s Hidden Gem: Powerhouse Museum’s Treasures Revealed (2024)

Who has not been intrigued by mummies? We all want to visit Egypt someday to see and learn about this attractive ancient custom. I was fortunate to see these mummies in Sydney at the Powerhouse Museum. In this post, you will find the visual journey of the mummies I saw during my visit to the museum.

I have always been fascinated by the stories of mummies. A long time ago, I saw some of the documentaries on how mummies are created and the entire funeral process in Egypt. Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum was hosting an exhibition of mummies. When I stumbled upon the event on Facebook, I immediately RSVPed. One of my friends was also interested, so we booked two tickets online and were all set to visit the exhibition.

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Where is the Powerhouse Museum?

The Powerhouse Museum, located in Ultimo, Sydney, is a key attraction of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS). Opened in 1988, the museum occupies a converted power station, giving it a unique historical character.

The museum houses various artefacts that span science, technology, art, fashion, design, and social history. Among the notable exhibits are the iconic Locomotive Number 1 and the Apollo 11 Space Capsule, which showcase significant achievements in their respective fields.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Powerhouse Museum hosts temporary exhibitions and events, including fascinating displays such as Egyptian mummies. The museum is trendy for school field trips and educational outings. Visitors can check the museum’s Facebook page for updates on public events and special exhibitions.

Visiting the Powerhouse Museum is a fantastic free activity in Sydney. The museum welcomes visitors daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, and they can explore its diverse collection. With its rich history and engaging exhibits, the Powerhouse Museum is a highlight for anyone exploring Sydney.

Situated in the Central Business District (CBD), the Powerhouse Museum is conveniently located near other landmarks in Sydney. Visitors can easily combine their trip to the museum with a self-guided tour around Sydney CBD, enriching their overall experience in the city.

For those who love museums, another must-visit destination in Sydney is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), which offers a different perspective on artistic expression.

How to Get to the Powerhouse Museum?

By Public Transport

The most convenient way to reach the Powerhouse Museum is by public transport. The nearest train station is Central Station, which is well-connected, and light rail services operate in the area. You can take the light rail to the Paddy’s Market stop or opt for a 1-kilometre walk from Central Station to the museum.

• Visit the Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) website for the latest travel information.
• Fares for public transport can be paid using the Opal transportation card or a credit/debit card.

Additionally, the museum is located near Darling Harbour, where you’ll find various restaurants and bars. It’s a great spot to enjoy delicious food while soaking in the scenic waterfront views.

By Road

Situated in the Ultimo suburb of Sydney, the Powerhouse Museum is easily accessible from the Central Business District (CBD). It is approximately 2 kilometres from the Sydney General Post Office (GPO), with a road journey taking around 10 minutes.

The museum offers limited paid parking on-site for visitors. If on-site parking is full, there are several parking options where you can find alternative spots. This makes it relatively convenient for those who prefer to drive to the museum.

The Powerhouse Museum is a great destination to explore science, technology, and design.

Booking and Entrance Fee

General admission to the Powerhouse Museum is free, allowing visitors to explore the main exhibits without charge. However, a ticket fee applies if you wish to attend special events or exhibitions. For instance, my friend and I paid AUD 27 per adult to see the mummy exhibition, which was well worth it.

Tickets can be conveniently purchased online in advance or at the museum entrance on the day of your visit. This flexibility allows visitors to plan their trip according to their interests. If you’re considering attending a specific event or exhibition, checking availability and securing your tickets beforehand is a good idea, as some events may sell out quickly. Overall, the Powerhouse Museum offers a range of engaging exhibits, making it an exciting destination for free and ticketed experiences.

My Experience of Seeing the Egyptian Mummies at the Powerhouse Museum

We arrived at the Powerhouse Museum around 7 PM, excited to explore the much-anticipated mummy exhibition. After collecting our pre-paid tickets from the counter, we were handed a map and brochures containing fascinating information about the mummies on display.

The exhibition featured six mummies, showcasing insights into their lifestyles, appearances, and the circumstances surrounding their lives and deaths. The scientists at the British Museum employed advanced non-invasive techniques to recreate these findings, offering a unique glimpse into ancient history.

The first mummy we encountered was ‘Nestawedjat,’ a married woman from Thebes. Unfortunately, not much is known about her life. Her three coffins were brought to the British Museum in 1880. The name ‘Nestawedjat’ translates to ‘the one who belongs to the wedjot eye,’ with wedjot symbolizing protection and healing. This connection highlights the cultural beliefs surrounding life and death in ancient Egypt.

Next, we moved on to ‘Tamut,’ the chantress of Amun. Inscriptions on her coffin identify her as the daughter of a priest of God, Amun, who is revered as the King of Gods in ancient Egyptian mythology. Her role as a chantress indicates her significant position in religious ceremonies, where music and hymns played a vital role in worship.

The third mummy on display was ‘Irthorru,’ a priest from Akhmim. Irthorru served multiple deities and likely divided his time between various temples. He hailed from Akhmim, located about 200 kilometres north of Thebes. His status as a priest suggests he held an important role in maintaining the spiritual practices of the community.

Among the exhibits was also a female Temple singer from Thebes, whose name remains unknown. Inscriptions on her coffins indicate she was a priestess and, specifically, a singer in the Interior of Amun. She lived around 800 BC, and her role as a temple singer underscores the significance of music in religious practices during that time.

One of the most poignant displays was that of a young child, a two-year-old boy. His cartonnage indicates that he came from an elite family, reflecting the social hierarchy of ancient Egypt. The discovery of a child’s mummy often evokes deep emotions, reminding visitors of the fragility of life.

Finally, we encountered the mummy of a young man from Roman Egypt. The findings revealed that he was an overweight individual aged between 17 and 20 years, with dark curly hair. This mummy provides insights into the lifestyles and health conditions of young men during that period.

The mummy exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum was not only educational but also deeply moving. Each mummy had a unique story, illustrating ancient Egypt’s rich history and culture.

As we walked through the exhibit, we couldn’t help but reflect on the lives that once were, marvelling at the care and reverence shown in the preservation of these individuals. The use of non-invasive techniques by scientists allowed for a greater understanding of these ancient peoples, enhancing our appreciation for their customs and beliefs. The experience was truly unforgettable, leaving us with a profound respect for the past and its enduring mysteries.

Closing Notes

The entire exhibit provided a fascinating insight into Egyptian culture, making it one of the most captivating experiences I’ve ever had at a museum. The carefully curated displays, coupled with the advanced scientific techniques used to study the mummies, brought the ancient world to life remarkably.

Each mummy told a unique story, offering glimpses into the lives, beliefs, and practices of a civilisation that has long since vanished. The atmosphere in the Powerhouse Museum was electric with curiosity, and the informative brochures and maps enhanced our understanding of the artifacts. This exhibition not only deepened my appreciation for the history of ancient Egypt but also highlighted the museum’s commitment to presenting engaging and educational content.

My visit to the Powerhouse Museum was truly memorable, marking the best evening I’ve experienced in a museum setting. I left feeling inspired and enriched, eager to share what I learned with others. If you ever find yourself in Sydney, I highly recommend visiting the Powerhouse Museum, especially during special exhibitions like this one, where history unfolds before your eyes in such an engaging and enlightening manner.