As a museum enthusiast, visiting the British Museum was high on my list. But with over 8 million historical artefacts and more than 60 galleries, it’s nearly impossible to see and learn about everything in just one visit. What if a day (or less) is all you’ve got? I’ve compiled a guide of the British Museum‘s recommended must-see and some of my personal favourites.

The British Museum was established in 1753 and opened to the public in 1759. The museum houses a vast and diverse collection spanning over two million years of history, with artefacts from all continents.

Photo from VisitLondon

Photo from VisitLondon

During my last visit to the British Museum, I purchased a map as a guide and it referenced the Top 10 Objects to See if you only have a limited time. Here are the list of objects mentioned to save or pin for your next visit so that you do not need to purchase the map. You’re welcome.

Must-See Objects

You may have your own list of Must-See Objects too. Here are the ones I wanted to see for myself, some are already featured in the list above.

Rosetta Stone

Origin: Egypt

The Rosetta Stone is an ancient Egyptian artifact that played a crucial role in deciphering hieroglyphs, the ancient Egyptian writing system. It is a large, inscribed slab of black basalt stone that was discovered in 1799 by a French soldier during Napoleon Bonaparte’s military campaign in Egypt. The stone is named after the town of Rosetta (modern-day Rashid), where it was found.

Find more: Everything you need to know about the Rosetta Stone

Mermaid

Origin: Japan

The figure of a ‘mermaid’ that was made in Japan over 200 years ago composed of various materials; made of a fish tail attached to a monkey’s body with likely fish jaw and teeth. It was probably made as a joke or deception and it worked as it showed that early collectors were not interested in it’s authenticity.

The Parthenon Sculptures

Origin: Greece

The Parthenon Sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures that originally adorned the Parthenon temple on the Acropolis of Athens, considered masterpieces of classical art and are an integral part of the Parthenon’s architectural and artistic design. The controversy surrounding the Parthenon Sculptures revolves around their removal by Thomas Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin, in the early 19th century. The permission granted to Elgin is a matter of historical debate, with some arguing that it was obtained legitimately, while others contend that it was questionable.

Benin Bronzes

Origin: Benin City (present day Nigeria)

The Benin Bronzes are a collection of intricate brass and bronze sculptures and artefacts renowned for their artistic quality and cultural significance originating from the Kingdom of Benin, located in present-day Nigeria. In 1897, British forces conducted a punitive expedition against the Kingdom of Benin, resulting in the looting and pillaging of the royal palace. Many of the Benin Bronzes were taken as spoils of war and eventually found their way into European museums and private collections.

Find more: Contested Objects, Benin Bronzes

Nandi

Origin: India

The bull Nandi (which means rejoicing) appears at the entrance of every temple dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva recognised as Shiva’s gatekeeper symbolising strength, virility and fertility from the southern Indian tradition.

Statue of Tara

Origin: Sri Lanka

Tara, the Goddess of Compassion, is the consort of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. She was cast in solid bronze then gilded which is unusual for such a large sculpture.

Assyrian Lamassu Winged Bulls

Origin: Assyria (present day Iraq)

Lamassu are mythical creatures with the body of a bull or lion, wings of a bird, and often a human head. They served as protective deities. Winged bulls (human-headed bulls with wings) and lions were common features at the entrances of Assyrian palaces and temples.

Things to Note

• Entrance to the British Museum is free for all visitors, although special exhibitions may have an admission fee.
• The British Museum is MASSIVE. You will need more than 2 days to cover everything.
• While the British Museum has played a significant role in preserving and showcasing cultural heritage, it has also faced criticism and calls for the repatriation of certain artefacts. You can find out more about the Contested Objects from the Collection.
• You will need to purchase a map of the the British Museum for £2. Pin this post for the map and The Top 10 Objects as seen on the map.
• There is a souvenir, book shop and cafe located at The Great Court for your uninterested/cranky travel companions to sit and have tea or when you feel like having a snack in the middle of your tour.

Address:
British Museum, Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG, London, United Kingdom
Tel: +442073238299

Opening Hours:
10:00 – 17:00 (Sat – Thurs), 10:00 – 20:30 (Fri)

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Reference:
The British Museum

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