At the University of Chicago in Hyde Park, the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum brings together archaeology from the ancient Middle East, Egypt and Persia. Its galleries range from carved reliefs and tablets to large sculptures, including an Assyrian winged bull and a statue of King Tutankhamun. The displays give you room to follow distinct periods and regions at your own pace. Admission is by optional donation, and a guided tour can add historical context to the objects.
Collections from across the ancient Middle East
The museum is part of the University of Chicago’s Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures, a research center focused on ancient Near Eastern civilizations. Its collections include objects from archaeological excavations in Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Turkey and other parts of the region.
The galleries cover areas including Mesopotamia, Assyria, Egypt, Nubia, Persia, Anatolia and the Levant. Objects range from pottery and tablets to carved reliefs and monumental sculpture, giving the collection a broad span of material and place.
Sculpture and reliefs to look for
The human-headed winged bull from the Assyrian city of Khorsabad is one of the museum’s most imposing objects. Assyrian palace reliefs provide another close look at the carved stonework of the region. In the Egyptian galleries, a statue of King Tutankhamun is a prominent display.
The exhibits are arranged in sections by region and period. Benches in several areas offer places to pause as you move through the galleries.
A visit with more historical context
You can explore independently, or arrange a guided tour to hear more about the objects and the societies that produced them. Tours can connect individual artifacts with wider histories, including ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt.
Allow 2 to 3 hours for a thorough visit. Admission is by optional donation. If you want to revisit details later, take notes or photographs of exhibit descriptions where permitted.
FAQ
How much does admission cost?
Admission is by optional donation; the supplied information does not give a set amount.
How long should I spend at the museum?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a thorough visit through the galleries.
Can I take a guided tour?
Guided tours are available. Consider arranging a private guide if you want more detailed historical context.
Where is the museum?
It is at 1155 E 58th St on the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, Chicago.
