The British Museum, located in Great Russell Street in London, is one of the world’s most important and most visited museums. It is a museum of human history and culture and has more than 8 million objects in its collection. The museum was founded in 1753 and is one of the oldest public institutions in the world.
History of the British Museum
The museum was founded in 1753, when the British government purchased the collection of Sir Hans Sloane, a physician and collector. Sloane had amassed a large collection of books, manuscripts, coins, plants, and antiquities during his lifetime. His collection became the core of the British Museum.
The museum was officially established in 1759 and opened to the public in 1759. It was the first national public museum in the world. Since then, the museum has grown and expanded its collection, which now includes more than 8 million objects. It is now one of the world’s largest and most important museums.
The Collection
The British Museum’s collection is vast and diverse, with objects from all over the world and all periods of human history. The collection includes artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as from the Islamic world, China, and Japan. The museum also has a large collection of coins and medals, as well as prints and drawings.
The museum also houses a library, which contains more than 5 million books, manuscripts, and other items. The library is open to the public and is one of the largest research libraries in the world.
Exhibitions and Events
The British Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year. The museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and other educational events. There are also guided tours of the museum available for visitors.
Visiting the British Museum
The British Museum is open to the public and admission is free. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5.30pm. The museum is closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.
The museum is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest underground station being Tottenham Court Road. The museum is also accessible by bus and by bike.
Things to Do at the British Museum
- Explore the museum’s vast collection of artifacts.
- Visit the library and read rare books and manuscripts.
- Attend lectures, workshops, and other educational events.
- Take a guided tour of the museum.
- Visit the museum shop and browse for souvenirs and gifts.
Tips for Visiting the British Museum
- Allow plenty of time to explore the museum and its collection.
- Check the museum website for details of exhibitions and events.
- Bring a camera to take photos of the museum’s artifacts.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the museum is large and there is a lot to see.