Exhibiting a range of items, objects and artefacts, museums have always been a major attraction among the tourists. Located all over the world, they allow visitors to study and understand the rich past and traditions of different countries/cultures.
As per the World Museum Community, there are over 55,000 museums located in 202 countries. Here are just 5 of the most visited ones from across the world.
The British Museum, London
Dedicated to the human history, The British Museum is one of the largest in London. Established in 1753, it is home to a collection of over 71,000 objects of all kinds including painted books, manuscripts, prints and drawings by prominent artists and painters. Artefacts from the tomb of King Khasekhemwy from the 2nd dynasty, flint knife with an ivory handle (known as the Pit-Rivers Knife) from Sheikh Hamada, Egypt, Colossal limestone bust of Amenhotep III, Obelisks, and sarcophagus of Pharaoh Nectanebo II are among the popular exhibits displayed at the museum.
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Presenting over 5000 years of art from across the world, Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the United States and the most visited one in the world. It features an amazing collection of art and artefacts dating back to the early 18th century. The Statuette of Amun, Votive stela of Userhat, Marble Statue Group of the Three Graces and numerous ancient European paintings are displayed here. The museum is divided into 17 curatorial departments.
The Louvre, Paris
A prominent landmark in the city, The Louvre is the world’s largest museum and a historical monument in France. Located on the bank of river Seine, the structure is known for featuring a wide collection of objects and artefacts. Officially established in 1793, the museum is home to over 38,000 objects including 500 paintings and around 10,000 artefacts. Papyrus scrolls, tools, clothing, jewellery, musical instruments and weapons including the Gebel el-Arak Knife, and The Seated Scribe are among the popular exhibits here. Regular exhibitions and workshops are organised for the visitors at The Louvre.
Acropolis Museum, Greece
Opened to the public in 2009, Acropolis Museum is a recent addition to the list of museums across the world. A former Turkish garrison built during the colonial period, the museum is home to ancient artefacts dating back to the era of the Byzantine Empire and Greek Bronze Age. Sculptures and figures of Kritios Boy, Goddess Nike, Peplos Kore and Moschophoros are among the popular items on display here. Be a part of the weekly exhibition and weekend workshop to understand the country’s rich history and culture.
Vatican Museum, Italy
Founded by Pope Julius II in 1506, Vatican Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world. Located in the beautiful Vatican City, the museum contains a total of 54 galleries displaying around 70,000 objects and over 20,000 paintings and sculptures. The works of Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Perugino and Raphael are displayed here. A collection of maps from different periods in history can be located at the popular Gallery of Maps.
