5 Things in the British Museum That Will Blow Your Mind
The British Museum is one of those places where you could spend an entire day and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface. Home to over 8 million objects spanning thousands of years of history, it’s packed with treasures that tell the story of human civilisation.
From ancient wonders to jaw-dropping curiosities, some displays will quite literally stop you in your tracks. But to be honest, there’s just far too much to see in there. You’re definitely going to get British Museum fatigue.
If you’re short on time and want to head straight to the showstoppers, here are five things in the British Museum in London that will blow your mind.
The British Museum is FREE to visit.
1. The Rosetta Stone
This single slab of dark granodiorite is the reason we can read Egyptian hieroglyphs today. Carved in 196 BC, the Rosetta Stone carries the same text in three scripts: Ancient Greek, Demotic, and hieroglyphic.
When it was discovered in 1799, it became the key to unlocking the mysteries of Ancient Egypt. Standing in front of it feels surreal – you’re looking at the object that solved one of history’s greatest linguistic puzzles.
2. The Parthenon Sculptures
Also known as the Elgin Marbles, these dramatic carvings once decorated the Parthenon in Athens. The intricate detail in the horses, warriors and gods is staggering when you remember they were created over 2,400 years ago.
Whether you’re wowed by the artistry or caught up in the ongoing debate about their return to Greece, there’s no denying their impact.
3. The Egyptian Mummies
Few displays are as fascinating – or as eerie – as the Egyptian mummies. The British Museum has one of the most impressive collections outside of Egypt, and you’ll see everything from elaborately painted sarcophagi to actual preserved bodies. Some are thousands of years old, yet still incredibly well-preserved. It’s spine-tingling to be so close to something (and someone) that’s survived across millennia.
4. The Lewis Chessmen
These quirky little characters are one of the museum’s most beloved treasures. Carved from walrus ivory in the 12th century, the Lewis Chessmen were discovered on a beach in Scotland and are thought to have been made in Norway.
They’re expressive, slightly comical, and utterly captivating – like tiny medieval cartoons come to life. You’ll never look at a chessboard the same way again.
5. Hoa Hakananai’a – The Easter Island Statue
You don’t need to travel to the South Pacific to marvel at the giant stone figures of Rapa Nui (Easter Island). The British Museum’s moai, named Hoa Hakananai’a, dates back to around 1000 AD and stands over two metres tall. Its presence is magnetic – this imposing figure was originally placed with its back to the sea, watching over the islanders.
Visiting The British Museum
The British Museum is free to enter, which makes it one of the most incredible cultural experiences in the world that won’t cost you a penny.
Of course, it’s easy to get lost among the galleries, so heading straight to these five objects is a great way to make sure you hit the highlights. Each one has shaped history in some way – and standing before them is a reminder of just how vast and connected our world really is. There’s a reason why it’s one of the best things to do in London for free!
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