Ashmolean Museum, Oxford (must see)

The Ashmolean Museum, located on Beaumont Street, is a captivating museum that can be likened to a treasure trove, offering a delightful experience for all.

Established in 1678 with the purpose of housing the cabinet of curiosities donated by Elias Ashmole, this museum holds the distinction of being the world's first university museum. In 1845, it relocated to its current premises, which were designed by Charles Cockerall to accommodate its ever-expanding collection.

Within the museum, you will find an impressive array of Pre-Raphaelite paintings, along with drawings by renowned artists such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Additionally, there are several watercolor works by Turner on display.

Many of the archaeological artifacts showcased here come from the personal collections of Elias Ashmole, as well as those of John Tradescant the Elder and the Younger. These individuals were not only collectors but also naturalists, botanists, and travelers.

The exhibitions encompass a diverse range of items, including ancient coins, books, engravings, and geological specimens. Notably, the museum boasts a beautiful assortment of Greek and Minoan pottery, as well as artifacts from Ancient Egypt and Sudan, which were originally part of Arthur Evans' estate. Arthur Evans was the archaeologist renowned for excavating the Palace of Knossos on the island of Crete.

Furthermore, the museum's collection features a captivating mix of curiosities. Among them are Oliver Cromwell's Death Mask, the lantern used by Guy Fawkes in his infamous attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament, the Alfred Jewel, the Abingdon Sword, and Lawrence of Arabia's ceremonial Arab head-dress.