Although Egyptology was not among the interests of the Egyptian rulers, Khedive Ismail paid a lot of attention to it, encouraging archeological excavations in Egypt. During his era, Egypt witnessed a series of excavations and archeological studies conducted by Europeans. The Germans contributed largely to the discovery of Ancient Egypt. Their contributions varied from formal missions to individuals' interest. The names of Lepsius, Brugsch and Dumichen decorated the façade of the Egyptian museum, and this is a reflection of their role in Egyptology. Brugsch was the leading figure in German Egyptology during this era.