British Museum

Overview

The British Museum is a staggering, massive institution dedicated entirely to human history, art, and culture. Its vast permanent collection of eight million historical works is among the largest in existence.

Highlights

• The Rosetta Stone: The crucial artifact that unlocked the mysterious ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.
• The Parthenon Sculptures: The debated, beautiful collection of ancient classical Greek marble sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens.
• The Great Court: The bright, massive central quadrangle spectacularly enclosed by Norman Foster's dizzying curved glass roof.

History

Founded in 1753, largely based on the collection of physician and scientist Sir Hans Sloane. It was the first public national museum in the world, dedicated to opening its doors free of charge to all "studious and curious persons."

Visitor Tips

• Pacing: It is physically impossible to see everything in one day. Pick exactly three specific galleries to avoid severe museum fatigue.
• Crowds: Avoid the main entrance on Great Russell Street; use the quieter Montague Place rear entrance to bypass massive security lines.
• Duration: 3–4 hours.