Monday 22/December/2025 – 03:10 PM
The Manial Palace Museum, in the Throne Hall, displays a rare historical picture of Khedive Abbas Hilmi II, the last to hold the title of Khedive of Egypt from the Alawite dynasty, coinciding with the anniversary of his death on this day, December 19.
The Manial Palace Museum displays a rare photo of the last Khedive of Egypt on the anniversary of his passing
Khedive Abbas Helmy II is considered the son of Khedive Tawfiq and grandson of Khedive Ismail, and the older brother of Prince Muhammad Ali Tawfiq, owner of Manial Palace. He assumed the rule of Egypt after the death of his father, and his mother was Amina Hanem Elhamy, known as the “Mother of the Benefactors.”
The reign of Khedive Abbas Hilmi II witnessed many important achievements, including the construction of a number of vital bridges such as the Abbas Bridge and the Galaa Bridge, in addition to his interest in restoring historical monuments, including the Al-Fath Mosque in Abdeen Palace, in addition to his role in establishing the Egyptian Museum and the Coptic Museum, and building Montazah Palace as a royal rest house.
His era also witnessed the opening of the first private university in Egypt, Cairo University, and the sending of scientific missions abroad, within the framework of his support for science and education.
Khedive Abbas Hilmi II was known for his patriotic positions opposing British policy, which made him a symbol of resistance to the occupation.
In 1914, the British occupation took advantage of his presence outside the country for treatment during World War I, and isolated and exiled him, and his uncle, Sultan Hussein Kamel, assumed the rule of the country, thus ending the era of the title of Khedive in the modern history of Egypt.
Displaying this photo comes as part of the Manial Palace Museum’s efforts to revive historical memory and shed light on influential figures in Egypt’s modern history.
