The Ashmolean Museum is one of the oldest and most famous museums in the world and is located in the heart of Oxford city centre. The museum is home to an incredible collection of art and artifacts from around the world and is a must-see destination for visitors to Oxford.
History of The Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum was founded in 1683 and is the oldest public museum in the world. The museum was established by Elias Ashmole, an antiquarian and collector, who donated his collection of art and artifacts to the University of Oxford. The museum has since grown to include over 1.5 million objects, from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome to European art and ceramics.
Why Visit the Ashmolean Museum
There are many reasons to visit The Ashmolean Museum, from its incredible collection of art and artifacts to its stunning architecture and rich history. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should visit:
The Collections – The Ashmolean Museum is home to an incredible collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci. The museum also features a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, as well as ceramics, jewellery, and musical instruments.
The Architecture – The Ashmolean Museum is housed in a beautiful building that combines historic and modern architecture. The original building dates back to the 17th century and was recently expanded to include a modern glass roof and new galleries.
The Exhibitions – The Ashmolean Museum hosts a wide range of exhibitions throughout the year, from ancient history to contemporary art. These exhibitions provide a unique insight into the museum’s collections and offer a chance to explore new ideas and perspectives. Some of the past exhibitions at the Ashmolean Museum have included “Jeff Koons at the Ashmolean”, which featured the work of the American artist Jeff Koons, and “America’s Cool Modernism: O’Keeffe to Hopper”, which explored the art of American modernism in the early 20th century. For tickets and more information on current Major Exhibition which is open from 10 February 2023 to 30 July 2023 ‘LABYRINTH, Knossos, Myth and Reality’, please visit the The Ashmolean Museum website.
The Learning Opportunities – The Ashmolean Museum offers a range of educational programs, including lectures, workshops, and tours. These programs provide a unique opportunity to engage with the museum’s collections and learn more about the history and culture of the world.
The Cafe – The Ashmolean Museum Cafe is located on the ground floor of the museum and offers visitors a range of snacks and light meals. The cafe is the perfect spot for a quick bite to eat and provides a peaceful and relaxing space to recharge after exploring the museum’s many exhibitions.
The menu at the Ashmolean Museum Cafe is inspired by the museum’s collections, with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The cafe offers a range of freshly made sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as a selection of cakes and pastries.
The Restaurant – The Ashmolean Museum Restaurant is located on the top floor of the museum and offers visitors a high-quality dining experience in a stunning setting. The restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of Oxford’s historic skyline and provides the perfect backdrop for a special meal.
The menu at the Ashmolean Museum Restaurant is designed by the museum’s executive chef and features a range of innovative dishes inspired by the museum’s collections. The restaurant offers a choice of set menus, as well as a la carte options, and provides an extensive wine list to accompany each dish.
The Ashmolean Museum is a must-see destination for visitors to Oxford. With its incredible collection of art and artifacts, stunning architecture, and rich history, the museum provides a unique insight into the world’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, European art, or contemporary culture, there is something for everyone at The Ashmolean Museum.
