The world's largest museums preserving history, art, and culture

From ancient civilisations to modern marvels, these institutions house some of the world's most precious and awe-inspiring treasures.

Here are the biggest museums in the world, showcasing the richness and diversity of human experience.

The Louvre Museum (France)

- Collection: Over 550,000 items

- Exhibition space: 782,910 square feet (72,735 square meters)

- Founded: 1793

The Louvre is the world's most famous and largest museum, with a collection that includes the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and other iconic works of art. Its stunning glass pyramid entrance and beautifully restored buildings make it a must-visit destination. The Louvre, however, at the beginning of 2025, the facility faced enormous overcrowding issues and water leakages.

The Hermitage Museum (Russia)

- Collection: Over 3 million items

- Exhibition space: 719,480 square feet

- Founded: 1764

The Hermitage Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the world, with a collection that spans from ancient Egypt to modern art. Its stunning architecture and opulent interiors make it a must-visit destination.

The Madras Museum (India)

- Collection: Over 3,000 items

- Exhibition space: 710,418 square feet

- Founded: 1851

The Madras Museum, also known as the Government Museum, Chennai, is one of the oldest and largest museums in India. Located in the heart of Chennai, the museum is a treasure trove of art, archaeology, anthropology, and natural history.

The National Museum of China

- Collection: Over 1 million items

- Exhibition space: 700,000 square feet

- Founded: 2003

The National Museum of China is a showcase of Chinese history and culture, with a collection that includes ancient Chinese artefacts, artwork, and historical relics. Its stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens make it a popular destination.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York City, USA)

- Collection: Over 1.5 million items

- Exhibition space: 633,100 square feet

- Founded: 1870

The Met, as it's affectionately known, is one of the world's premier art museums, with a collection that encompasses over 5,000 years of human history. From ancient Egyptian temples to modern masterpieces, the Met has something for everyone.

These five museums are just a few of the many incredible institutions around the world that are dedicated to preserving and showcasing human history, art, and culture. Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or simply curious about the world, these museums are sure to inspire and awe.