10 oldest museums in the world that’ll take you back in time

Museums are more than just repositories of artifacts; they are gateways to human history and culture. Some of the world’s oldest museums have stood the test of time, offering invaluable insights into ancient civilizations, art, and science. Visiting these ancient institutions is like stepping back in time, offering a unique glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who came before us.

Considered the world’s oldest public museum, the Capitoline Museums were established by Pope Sixtus IV in 1471. Located on Capitoline Hill, these museums showcase an extensive collection of classical sculptures, Renaissance art, and artifacts from ancient Rome. Highlights include the iconic Capitoline Wolf and a stunning statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Home to one of the largest art collections in the world, the Vatican Museums were established by Pope Julius II in 1506. Famous for Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, the museum also houses ancient Egyptian artifacts, Renaissance masterpieces, and Greek sculptures.

Founded in 1581, the Uffizi Gallery, commissioned by the Medici family, is one of the most renowned art museums in the world. It houses masterpieces from the Italian Renaissance, including Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Michelangelo’s Tondo Doni.

Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum is known as the world’s first university museum. The museum is famous for its eclectic collection of art and antiquities. It features everything from ancient Egyptian relics to modern art, including notable works by Turner and Picasso.

The Kunstkamera, founded in 1714, was established by Peter the Great. It is Russia's oldest museum and is famous for its Cabinet of Curiosities, showcasing unusual and fascinating artifacts that reflect Peter’s passion for science and exploration.

Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the first public national museum in the world. The museum boasts a vast collection of over 8 million artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon Sculptures, and Egyptian mummies. Its diverse exhibits trace human history from prehistory to the modern age.

The Hermitage Museum, housed in the opulent Winter Palace, was founded in 1764, and is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. It features over 3 million items, including works by Rembrandt, Picasso, and Da Vinci, as well as artifacts from ancient Egypt and Greece.

Originally a medieval fortress and later a royal palace, the Louvre became a public museum in 1793, during the French Revolution. It houses over 38,000 artifacts, including iconic works like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Its history-rich halls attract millions of visitors annually. It is one of the world’s most visited museums.

Founded in 1829, the National Archaeological Museum in Athens is dedicated to ancient Greek art and history. This museum houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts, including the Mask of Agamemnon and the Antikythera Mechanism.

The State Historical Museum, located on Red Square, was founded in 1872. This museum chronicles Russian history from prehistoric times to the present. Its impressive collection includes archaeological finds, ancient manuscripts, and royal treasures.