If you’re a fan of history, then a trip to the British Museum is a must. With so many exhibits and displays, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are 6 of the most essential (and interesting!) exhibits that you won’t want to miss on your next visit. Trust us, they’re worth the lineups!
Before You Explore, Leave Your Luggage in a Safe Space
Before you plan your visit to the museum, it’s a great idea to plan where you will keep your luggage and bags for the day while you view the exhibits. Many visitors who visited the British Museum left luggage at one of the many luggage storage spots in London, located in popular tourist areas such as Oxford Street, South Kensington, and Hyde Park. With your luggage in a safe and secure storage spot, you can enjoy these 6 must-see exhibits.
1. The Rosetta Stone
The Rosetta Stone is one of the most important archaeological finds ever. Discovered in 1799, it was key to unlocking the mystery of Egyptian hieroglyphs. This stone slab was written in three languages – Ancient Greek, Egyptian hieroglyphics and Demotic script – all at once, providing scholars with a way to translate those ancient symbols and begin to understand the long-forgotten culture. All modern translations of the ancient Egyptian language have been made possible due to this incredible discovery! How amazing that such an ancient object can still have tremendous impact to this day.
2. Sutton Hoo Helmet
The Sutton Hoo Helmet is an astonishing piece of history that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. A Saxon burial helmet, it was discovered during an archaeological dig in 1939 near a burial ground in Suffolk, England. The site dates back to the early 7th century and experts believe it belongs to one of the last kings of East Anglia, Raedwald of East Anglia. Considered one of Britain’s greatest archaeological discoveries, the magnificent helmet displays intricate workmanship and ornamental design long thought lost from this era. It truly is a sight to behold!
3. Parthenon Sculptures
The Parthenon sculptures are ancient Greek artworks from around 447-433 BCE. They help tell the story of Ancient Greece and its culture, featuring intricate designs and offering a glimpse of life from long ago. The Parthenon sculptures depict scenes from the life of the gods and goddesses that make up the Ancient Greek pantheon, as well as other everyday images such as animals, architecture, sports, and music. They appear in a variety of media, including marble sculptures, terracotta figurines called Tanagras, and subtly decorated pottery jars known as amphorae.
4. Lewis Chessmen
The Lewis Chessmen, originating from a hoard discovered in the 19th century on the Isle of Lewis, is considered by many to exhibit some of the most iconic and timeless symbols of medieval Britain. Originally crafted from walrus ivory and whale teeth, this unique exhibit can today be found at the British Museum. Found within several pieces of baggage belonging to perhaps a merchant passing through the area, no one knows exactly their origin or who commissioned them. But, their depictions remain vivid nearly 900 years later and have been admired by many!
5. Mummy of Hornedjitef
This incredible artifact was discovered in 1888 and moved to the British Museum in 1902. It is said to be the remains of a Theban priest who served during Ancient Egypt’s 26th dynasty, likely sometime between 671 and 525 BC. When it arrived at the museum, it became one of the first mummies available for public view. A headdress with a cobra ornament still adorns his skull, and despite the passage of time – researchers have been able to decipher several interesting details about his life from the mummy. Visitors to the British Museum are always encouraged to take some time to marvel at this fascinating piece of ancient history.
6. Golden Mask of Agamemnon
The golden mask of Agamemnon is undoubtedly one of the most mysterious artifacts ever discovered. Thought to have been made around 1500 BC – a time during which few civilizations had even begun to emerge – it was unearthed in 1876 near the city of Mycenae and is now housed in the British Museum’s Hellenic Collection, London. The mask, believed to have likely belonged to King Agamemnon himself, appears almost as if it were frozen in time; its gleaming gold, intricate details and aura of mystery deserve a trip to the museum in order for visitors to take it all in. Drop by the British Museum and allow yourself to be transported back 3,500 years!
Don’t Miss These Exhibits at the British Museum
After exploring our top 6 picks for must-see exhibits at the British Museum, we hope that you have gained a better appreciation for archaeology and that you now feel inspired to visit them in person someday. So when you’re planning your next vacation, don’t forget to include these sites in your bucket list! With their vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and rich cultural histories, each one of these artifacts will surely capture your attention and imagination.
