The Fitzwilliam Museum is a treasure trove of art, antiquities and artifacts, located in the historic city of Cambridge, England. It is one of the oldest and largest museums in the country, and has been a centre of scholarship and research since it opened in 1816. The museum houses an impressive collection of works spanning the history of art, from ancient Egypt and Greece to the present day.
History
The museum was established in 1816 by Richard, 7th Viscount Fitzwilliam of Merrion, who donated his own collection of art and antiquities to the University of Cambridge. The museum was built to house this collection, and over the years it has grown to include works from all over the world, including Europe, Asia and Africa.
Collections
The Fitzwilliam Museum is home to an extensive and diverse collection of works, from ancient Egyptian and Greek sculptures, to Renaissance and Baroque paintings, to modern and contemporary art. The museum also houses a collection of rare books, manuscripts and coins, as well as a large collection of prints and drawings.
Highlights
The museum is home to a number of notable works, including the famous Nefertiti Bust, an ancient Egyptian sculpture of the queen of Egypt; the Hindley Book of Hours, an illuminated manuscript from the Middle Ages; and the Portrait of the Artist’s Wife, a painting by the Dutch master Rembrandt.
Events and Exhibitions
The Fitzwilliam Museum hosts a number of events and exhibitions throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and special events such as the annual ‘Fitzwilliam Museum Late’ event, which takes place in the evening and offers a chance to explore the museum in a different light. The museum also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions, showcasing works from its own collection as well as from other institutions.
Visiting the Museum
The Fitzwilliam Museum is open to the public every day except Monday, and admission is free. Guided tours of the museum are available, and visitors can also take part in a range of activities and events. The museum also has a café and a gift shop.
Accessibility
The Fitzwilliam Museum is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities, and offers a range of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. These include wheelchair access, audio description and British Sign Language interpretation.
Conclusion
The Fitzwilliam Museum is a wonderful place to explore the history of art and antiquities, and offers a unique insight into the past. With its impressive collections and a range of activities and events, it is a great place to visit for people of all ages.
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