Indian Museum

The Indian Museum, often referred to as the Kolkata Museum, is the oldest and one of the most significant museums in India. Established in 1814 by the Asiatic Society, it was founded to preserve and study India’s natural and cultural history. Over the years, the museum has grown into a major centre of learning, offering valuable insights into India’s past through its vast collection of artifacts. Its galleries showcase ancient sculptures, coins, fossils, Egyptian mummies, paintings, and numerous archaeological treasures, playing a crucial role in shaping museum culture and historical research in India.

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The museum is regarded as a heritage site because it represents more than two centuries of history. Its classical European-style building, with grand pillars, wide corridors, and high ceilings, reflects the architectural ideas of the early 19th century and stands as a reminder of the colonial era and its approach to knowledge and culture. By preserving thousands of rare objects that reveal details about ancient civilizations, traditional art forms, and India’s natural environment, the Indian Museum continues to educate and inspire visitors from around the world, making it a truly enduring heritage institution.