This October, the Milwaukee Public Museum hosts "Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Queen of Egypt." The exhibit opens Oct. 14, and will be the third stop for the traveling show.
"Cleopatra" features nearly 150 artifacts from the time of the Egyptian Queen and takes visitors through the present day search for clues.
The exhibit is jointly organized by National Geographic and Arts & Exhibitions International. It features statuary, jewelry, everyday items, coins and religious artifacts archaeologists have uncovered from both the deserts of Egypt and the Bay of Aboukir near Alexandria.
"Cleopatra" is the first time any of these artifacts have been shown in the United States.
After the Romans conquered Egypt, they attempted to wipe Cleopatra's legacy from the map, including her relationships with prominent Roman leaders Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Her final resting place has remained one of Egypt's largest historical mysteries, and the "Cleopatra" exhibit provides a glimpse at the clues archaeologists have so far.
The exhibit includes a complimentary audio guide that will give visitors a detailed background for each artifact.
The exhibit itself follows the modern day stories of two expeditions. One is led by Dr. Zahi Hawass, Egypt's pre-eminent archaeologist and the country's Minister of State for Antiquities.
The other is led by French underwater archaeologist Franck Goddio.
Goddio, the director of the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology (IEASM), and has uncovered Cleopatra's royal palace and two ancient cities that were previously lost to the sea after a series of earthquakes and tidal waves nearly 2,000 years ago.
Hawass' expedition has been searching for the tombs of both Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and artifacts from their most recent excavation are featured in the exhibit.
"Queen Cleopatra has captured the hearts of people all over the world," said Dr. Hawass.
"Remembered as a beautiful, charismatic and powerful woman, many things about her life are still shrouded in mystery. In 2005, we began to search for the tomb where she was buried with her lover, Mark Antony, which we believe was in an ancient temple near Alexandria.
"This exhibition, which includes objects found in our current excavations, will give the American people the chance to learn about our search for Cleopatra, and will share with them the magic of this fascinating queen."
Tickets for "Cleopatra: The Search for the Last Egyptian Queen" are on sale now. Weekday admission is $27.50 for adults and weekend adult admission is $29.50.
Discounts are available for children, seniors, groups and county residents. More information can be found and tickets can be purchased via mpm.edu or by phone at (414) 223-4676.
