The OG girl boss experience has finally reached the streets of London. That’s right, Egypt’s baddest Cleopatra is here for a 15-week-long immersive exhibition. Londoners are invited to step into adventure-filled Ancient Egypt. With cutting-edge technology, this striking exhibition combines the past and present, bringing the mysteries of Cleopatra’s life once more.
From high-quality VR to advanced AR experience and immersive spaces that offer a glimpse of history, this interactive exploration is truly not to be missed this spring. So come along and check out my review of Cleopatra: The Experience. Who knows, you might feel tempted to pay a visit yourself.
Where exactly is Cleopatra: The Experience?
This journey into one of the most iconic periods of Ancient Egypt is easier than you think since it’s only a tube ride away. The Elizabeth Line takes you practically to the doorstep of Immerse LDN, Excel Waterfront. The venue has previously hosted such immersive experiences as Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition, The Last Days of Pompeii and others.
What’s the exhibition like?
The exhibition starts pretty strong with an AI photo camera at the entrance, transporting you straight to Egypt. All you gotta do is pose with your besties (I went solo and had the best time, if you’re considering going by yourself). And there you go – experience captured to show off on socials.
As I stepped further into the exhibition space, I was instantly captivated by the hologram room. As someone who has never done it before, I was excited to finally experience this type of technology. Just imagine, a dark, cosy room, headphones on, watching moving 3D images while listening to the legacy of the Goddess herself. From the arrival of Alexander the Great to the final days of Cleopatra and ancient Egypt, I learned a lot. I thought it was fascinating; headphones helped me feel like I was transported into the story.
One thing I noticed throughout my exploration is that every corner was filled with historical facts about Cleopatra’s life, making this experience not only entertaining but also educational. As I wandered around, I stumbled upon a free-roaming Metaverse walk. As someone like me, who usually needs glasses, I was a little sceptical about how this was going to work. But actually, I was completely fine. I got to enter her royal chamber, explore the catacombs, witness Alexander the Great’s coronation and much more. I have to admit, some parts were trippy, which only made it more fun!
An immersive walk through Ancient Egypt
The immersive Cleopatra exhibition was filled with lots of really cool rooms offering high-tech educational elements. I was surprised to find artefacts from the Hellenistic and late Egyptian period, play around with an interactive map of Alexandria, and learn Cleopatra’s beauty secrets.
It was fascinating to come across interactive mirrors exploring details of Cleopatra’s hair, make-up and jewellery. I was surprised to learn that her hair was a living identity symbol that spoke before words – absolute girboss moment.
However, my favourite part was a huge immersive 360-degree, 8 metre high video mapping room. Not only does it bring Cleopatra’s story to life, making it irresistible to watch, but it also allows you to fully relax. Let’s admit, we all need a moment of escapism these days, and this room was exactly that.
While really chill, it definitely offered some dramatic elements too. The session was an opportunity to see Cleopatra’s coronation, her love story with Mark Antony and her final epic battle, revealing her fate. As the room was spinning all around me with various visual and sound effects, I felt immersed in the story. I have to admit, I did spend a good amount of time just sitting there and absorbing everything….
Final thoughts on the experience
To sum up the review of Cleopatra: The Experience, I think it definitely expanded my knowledge of history. While technologically advanced features made it easier to memorise everything. Not to mention the fact that I found out what a baddie Cleopatra was at the time.
Whether you’re a fan of history or simply looking for new things to do in London, this could be a great opportunity. Striking visuals, engaging storytelling, compelling representation of history through the technological lens – all of this and more made my visit to Immerse LDN worth it.
