Ashmolean Museum

The imposing neoclassical monument in front of you, with its 4 large columns supporting the pediment, is the famous Ashmolean Museum. It was Britain’s very first public museum! The first building was built in the late 17th century to house the cabinet of curiosities that Elias Ashmole donated to Oxford University in 1677. The collection was subsequently considerably enlarged thanks to numerous donors. Today, the Ashmolean Museum is the world’s second-largest university museum, after Basel in Switzerland. Its collections are incredible and worth a visit. You’ll find fascinating works of art of inestimable value. From Egyptian mummies to English silverware, from Raphael’s drawings to Viking treasures! There’s so much to see, you’re bound to find something that fascinates you. If you’d like to take a look, entry is free, but a donation is suggested. You can also take advantage of the museum’s rooftop cafeteria for a drink with a view, a coffee or even dinner!