British Museum

The British Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world, it houses over 8 million interesting artifacts. This museum is a real find for those who are interested in the history of mankind. It was founded by Sir Hans Sloan in 1753, who filled in much of his own collection. For the first time the museum opened its doors in 1759 in Montagu's house, and has existed for over 262 years.

It all started in the Montagu house

When the British Museum first opened its doors in 1759, it was located in the Montagu House. This house was a 17th century mansion built on the site of the current museum. Most of the collection, which was first exhibited in the museum, belonged to Sir Hans Sloan, an Irish physician and scientist. 71,000 items, consisting of antiquities, national samples and books. The expansion of the museum over the next 250 years was a consequence of the expansion of the British. So many artifacts were brought from the colonies that new sections of the museum had to be created.

Museum lighting

Until the end of the 19th century, the museum was illuminated by natural daylight. Candles, oil lamps and gas lamps were not used in the galleries for fear of fire, so the museum often had to close early due to poor lighting in winter or during London fog. The museum thus became one of the first public buildings in London to have electric lighting installed. In 1879, experimental electric lighting was carried out in the front hall, the reading room and the front yard. Although this early lighting system was unreliable, the reading room could be open until 7 pm in winter. Within 10 years, the improved system was extended to most public places.

Main Hall

The main hall of the museum is the largest covered area in Europe, built in 2000 and is the center of the museum. A glass and steel roof covers the central reading room. In this room, you can see a 1st century Roman equestrian statue, a Moai from Easter Island, and a 12-meter Kaiung totem pole made by the Haida people of British Columbia, Canada.

Controversial exhibits

One of the most interesting facts about the British Museum is that its collection consists of rare artifacts from around the world. Many of these countries want their artifacts back and have demanded their return. However, the British Museum has categorically stated that it will not be returning any items. The museum only gives out its exhibits for temporary use, sometimes even to the countries from which they came.