British Museum is a public institution dedicated to human history, art and culture, located in the Bloomsbury area of London. It is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the world, and the first national public museum in the world. The museum was established in 1753, primarily based on the collections of the physician and scientist Sir Hans Sloane. The museum first opened to the public in 1759. Today, the museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from all continents, from the dawn of human history to the present day.
History
The British Museum was founded in 1753, based on the collections of Sir Hans Sloane. Sloane was an Irish-born physician and naturalist who had amassed a huge collection of books, manuscripts, coins, medals, plants, fossils, and other items during his lifetime. Upon his death in 1753, Sloane bequeathed his collections to King George II, with the stipulation that the collection be made available to the public. King George II accepted the offer, and the British Museum was established in 1753.
Collections
The British Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from all over the world. The collection includes objects from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum’s collections include objects from the ancient Near East, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Europe. It also has an extensive collection of coins, medals, prints and drawings, and other artifacts from around the world.
Galleries
The museum has a number of galleries, each dedicated to a different period or theme. These include the Egyptian, Greek and Roman, Middle East, Europe, Asia, Africa, Americas, and the Prints and Drawings galleries. The museum also has a number of special exhibitions and displays, as well as a library and a reading room.
Visiting the British Museum
The British Museum is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm, except on certain holidays. Admission is free, although there are charges for some special exhibitions and events. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, visit the library and reading room, and take part in a variety of events and activities.
Tours
The museum offers a variety of guided tours and audio tours, including:
- Highlights Tour – a two-hour tour of the museum’s highlights.
- Introduction to the British Museum – a one-hour tour introducing visitors to the museum’s history, collections and galleries.
- Themes Tour – a two-hour tour focusing on a specific theme or period.
- Behind the Scenes Tour – a two-hour tour exploring the museum’s conservation and research facilities.
Events and Activities
The museum hosts a variety of events and activities, including lectures, workshops, family activities, and more. The museum also offers a range of online resources, including podcasts, online exhibitions, and virtual tours.
Conclusion
The British Museum is one of the world’s most important museums, and a must-see destination for anyone interested in human history, art, and culture. With its vast collections, galleries, and activities, it is sure to delight and inspire visitors of all ages.