The British Museum in London

Established by an Act of Parliament in 1753, the British Museum's founding compilation consisted primarily of manuscripts, books, natural specimens and a few antiquities. The collection was free for viewing by "studious and curious Persons."

The museum originally housed at the Montagu House maintained its location through the centuries. Through remodeling and construction the 21st Century British Museum comfortably welcomes 6 million curious people every year.

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Known for bringing the World to London, current exhibits and events encompass worldwide cultures and span the millennia, and just like the National Gallery, entrance is free. Exhibits provide a unique focus of particular subjects. For example, a medieval relic collection brings together 150 religious relics from as early as the fourth century AD. The cult of saints venerate the holy by preserving fragments of the saints in beautiful and sometimes ornately designed or decorated art works.

Hands-on learning enhances the museum experience for all ages. Cross cultural activities from China, Africa or the Middle East ensures a fully tactile experience. Revisit ancient times by exploring aspects of Vikings, Egyptian, Greek or Aztec wisdom. Museum workshops offer practice and understanding within dynamic module offerings in Music, History, Religious Education, Art, Science, Civilizations or Literacy.

The impressive Viking collection displays a variety of objects including the Lewis Chessman. Found on the Isle of Lewis, archeologists believe these chessmen were originally carved in Norway. The Society for Creative Anachronism, a world organization encourages members to explore medieval history; a plethora of SCA member blogs share information about the 12th century game pieces.

If you are not fortunate enough to visit the Museum in London, portions of the collection travel on tour or become available for periodic loan. Though smaller than the main museum collection the touring exhibits include impressive assemblies such as High Kicks with Toulouse-Lautrec, Ghana textiles or Revolutionary Mexican Paper Prints.

The curator and museum supporters fund ongoing archeology work as well as procurement of art and antiquities through the proper cultural channels. An overview of the funded projects is found on the website by clicking on the Research tab. A full collection database allows internet searches for particular items within the museum.

Navigating the British Museum web site conveys the extent of the combined cross departmental resources which creates an interest and excitement for future visitors planning a trip to London's oldest museum.