The Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome to the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford — one of the world’s most unique and fascinating museums! Set in the heart of the University of Oxford, the museum offers a wonderful selection of interesting collections that tell the story of humanity. The museum is a great place to explore the history and culture of different civilizations from all around the world, from traditional artifacts to modern-day experiences. In this blog, you can expect to learn more about the wonderful history and culture of the museum, its interesting facts, information, and ways to explore the museum during your next visit to Oxford. So let’s dive right in and explore the Pitt Rivers Museum!

Interesting Facts About The Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford

1. The Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford was founded in 1884 by Lieutenant-General Augustus Henry Lane Fox Pitt Rivers and originally housed in Bethune Row, part of a former coaching inn.

2. The museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of archaeological and anthropological artifacts, with over 500,000 objects from all over the world.

3. The museum has a strong focus on the study of anthropology, and it is a hub for anthropological research for students and academics.

4. The Pitt Rivers Museum has been the setting for many television documentaries and films, including the popular BBC series, QI.

5. The museum is the home of one of the oldest human skeletons in existence, the Red Lady of Paviland. The fossilized human skull is over 30,000 years old and is believed to have belonged to an adult female.

6. The Pitt Rivers Museum is the home of the ancient shrunken heads known as Tsantsas. These were “trophies” created by the Jivaro tribe in the Amazon and believed to have special powers.

7. The Pitt Rivers Museum has an extensive library of books, manuscripts and photographs. The collection covers topics such as archaeology, anthropology, ethnography and religious studies.

8. The Pitt Rivers Museum regularly hosts a range of events and activities including guided tours, family days, lectures and live performances.

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History & Information About The Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford

The Pitt Rivers Museum is an ethnographic and archaeological museum located on the Kemerton Road in Oxford, England. It was founded in 1884 as the Pitt Rivers Collection, with the museum officially opening in 1886. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to anthropology and archaeology.

The museum is home to an array of objects from the history of mankind, ranging from the earliest tools and weapons, to items from tribal cultures around the world. It has been described as one of the most important collections of anthropology and archaeology in the world today.

The museum was founded by Lieutenant-General Augustus Henry Lane Fox Pitt Rivers, who was an avid collector of archaeological and anthropological artifacts. After he had collected many such items from all over the world, he gave his collection to the University of Oxford, with the intent that they form the basis of an anthropological institution.

The core of the museum’s collection was the private collection of Lane Fox Pitt Rivers, although the museum has since added many other artifacts. It has also engaged in archaeological digs throughout the world, and has made several major acquisitions.

The museum has been open to the public since October 1886, and remains one of the most popular and highly regarded attractions in the city of Oxford. It is an important resource for anthropologists and archaeologists who use its collections for research on a wide variety of topics.In 2013 the museum underwent a total renovation and expansion, giving it a thoroughly modern feel while still retaining its historical charm. The museum is also part of the University of Oxford’s popular museums, which includes the nearby Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

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Travel Guide For Visiting The Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford

Housed within the grounds of the University of Oxford is a unique museum founded by the pioneering anthropologist General Augustus Pitt Rivers. The Pitt Rivers Museum showcases a vast array of fascinating items from around the world, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of anthropology, archaeology, and technology.

Location:

The Pitt Rivers Museum is located at the University of Oxford, Department of Anthropology, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PP.

Opening Times:

The museum is open nine days a week from 10:00am to 4:00pm Monday to Saturday and from midday to 4:00pm on Sundays.

Getting There:

The museum is easily accessible by public transport. The University of Oxford Bus is located outside the back of the Bodleian Library and can be used to get to the museum. Alternatively, tourists can get to the museum by local taxi or bus from the Oxford Train Station.

Admission:

Admission to the museum is free.

Highlights:

The Pitt Rivers Museum offers a unique and interesting experience, with its huge collection of artifacts, representing cultures from all over the world. Highlighted artifacts include an original Australian Boomerang from the 19th century, a Whistling Arrow from Alaska, and an ornate Turkish Dagger from the late 16th century. The museum also includes interactive exhibits and activities, such as museum tours, walks, and workshops.

Guidance:

The Pitt Rivers Museum also offers hands-on activities and workshops for families and school groups of all ages. Educators at the museum are available to provide guidance to those visiting and seeking further insight into the artifacts on display.

Shop:

The museum also has a gift shop which sells a variety of gifts, books, and souvenirs.

Food:

The museum doesn’t have any on-site cafes but there are a variety of cafes and restaurants located nearby, offering refreshments and meals.

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford

Q: What is the Pitt Rivers Museum?

A: The Pitt Rivers Museum is an anthropological museum located in Oxford, England, founded in 1884. It houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from various cultures and time periods around the world. The museum is named after its founder, Augustus Pitt Rivers.

Q: What can I see at the Pitt Rivers Museum?

A: The museum is comprised of numerous galleries, each with a specific theme. Permanent gallery highlights include African tribal art, European archaeological religious artifacts, and the Pitt Rivers donation of 20,000 items from his personal collection.

Q: How long does it take to visit the Pitt Rivers Museum?

A: It can take between 2-3 hours to visit the museum, depending on the level of interest and available time.

Q: How much is admission to the Pitt Rivers Museum?

A: Admission to the museum is free.

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