A Guide to the British Museum One of the largest and most comprehensive anywhere in the world, it has been delighting both visitors and locals for centuries. Spanning the entirety of human history, the museum is home to around eight million artefacts and has items from every corner of the world in its collections. But with so much to see and an ever changing line-up of permanent and temporary exhibitions, where should you begin? Read on to find out about everything you need to see when visiting the British Museum.
Collections The Museum's extensive space and vast wealth of artefacts means that its collections can detail almost every civilisation from across the world. Its well respected collection of Chinese objects is hugely popular, most notably its vast array of Chinese jade artefacts. On display is a range of exquisitely carved dragons, pendants and ornaments. This high-value hardstone has been sculpted by Chinese craftsmen since the Neolithic period and provides an impressive insight into the country's heritage. The Museum's display of well-preserved artefacts from the Roman Empire is another must-see for visitors. Detailing roughly 1000 years of the world's most famous empire, the collection contains the famous Portland Vase as well as other pottery, sculptures and silverware. But the British Museum isn't stuck in a world of historic people and cultures; its collection of modern artefacts is also a major attraction for tourists. Whether you are interested in Russian Revolutionary porcelain or the Art Nouveau movement of Europe, you can find some of the most influential objects of the past 100 years in this collection.
Special Exhibitions As well as its permanent displays, the British Museum also stages special exhibitions to keep its collections fresh and draw people back for a second visit. One of the most popular right now is 'Renaissance to Goya', which brings together some of the most important work that came out of Spain between the 16th to early 19th century. The Museum has works by all the greats from Velรกzquez and Murillo to Goya and de Zubarรกn - as well as paintings that have never been made available for public viewing before. Another temporary gem in the British Museum's calendar is the 'Ritual and Revelry' exhibition about the art of drinking in Asia. Celebrating the ritual and social use of drinks such as tea and sake, the collection is made up of historic objects that were used to partake in this popular Asian hobby and help give an insight into the unique cultures that made them.
Visiting the Museum Located at the heart of the city, you can find yourself a great Bloomsbury hotelto allow you to make the most of your time at the British Museum. It's free to enter so get along early and take full advantage of the Museum and its wondrous, extensive and awe-inspiring exhibits. What is your favourite item in the British Museum?