For art, history, culture and even science enthusiasts, museums are a must-visit attraction when travelling around the globe. While those who are quick to dismiss them as boring may think again, these galleries have mastered the art of creating engaging exhibits that can change people’s minds about society. The results are often stunning, with some of the world’s most popular museums pulling in record-breaking numbers of visitors each year.
From the Louvre in Paris, which broke its own attendance records last year, to the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C, the top 20 most visited museums all over the world span across a range of topics, cultures and continents. From traditional galleries and cathedrals, to more modern buildings like the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, these museums all have one thing in common – they make a difference by offering a window into the past and helping visitors learn about the world we live in today.
The most popular museum in the world, the Louvre in Paris, boasts a huge collection of masterpieces by artists such as Monet and Renaissance painters such as Leonardo da Vinci. The Louvre also has a number of other famous attractions, including its iconic pyramid designed by I. M. Pei, which blends seamlessly with the palace’s medieval architecture.
Other popular art galleries include the Tate Modern in London, where a range of exhibitions are held, including those that let visitors interact with works and highlight how they were made. It’s also a favourite haunt of celebrities, including Jay-Z and Beyonce.
Another of the most visited museums in the world, the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg, Russia, boasts a huge collection of art and culture that covers all aspects of human life. Its collection ranges from ancient Egyptian art to more modern works, as well as an impressive array of archaeological finds and Asian and Russian culture.
With more and more travellers seeking a deeper understanding of the world they’re living in, museum visits are becoming increasingly important. And with advances in technology, more visitors than ever before can access museums around the world thanks to apps, digital guides, downloads and virtual reality.
Aside from the Louvre, many of the other most popular museums in the world are dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of their destination, from art to historical objects. For example, the British Museum in London is a must-visit for travellers to Britain who want to learn more about the country’s rich heritage, with a massive collection that includes iconic Egyptian sculptures and Roman artwork. While museums can inspire hate – as evidenced by the noose found purposefully hanging outside the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2017 – they have a huge amount of power to unite their audiences. And in a world that’s plagued with racism, ignorance and intolerance, knowledge and understanding are the best weapons. That’s why it’s so important that they continue to share their collections with the public.
