Discovering the World’s Treasures: Celebrating International Museum Day

“Knowledge of the past is the only way forward.”

As the world turns, each day brings with it new opportunities to explore, to discover, to learn. And on one special day each year, we come together to celebrate the very institutions that make such adventures possible: museums.

From the halls of history to the galleries of art, from the depths of science to the heights of culture, museums offer us a glimpse into worlds beyond our own. They awaken our curiosity, inspire our imaginations, and help us see the world in new and wondrous ways.

The mention of Museums brings a smile to many faces. Visiting them has been a part of growing up for many of us. It is a place where we can actually relive our History and hear stories of our ancestors, Studying them and their lifestyles and contemplating what motivated them to behave and develop as they did. From ancient sculptures to modern machinery, from the first radio, and airplane to war equipment used in World War I and II, we have museums for everything. Very few places in this world are as educational as a museum.

Have you ever walked past a museum and thought, “Eh, not my thing”? You’re not alone. Many people have never visited a museum, and maybe that’s because they think it’s boring or they just don’t see the appeal. But let me tell you, International Museum Day is the perfect opportunity to change your mind!

On May 18th, people all over the world celebrate museums and the incredible work they do. It’s a day to discover the secrets of history, art, science, and so much more. From ancient civilizations to modern-day innovations, museums offer something for everyone. International Museum Day is a day to explore the beauty and wonder of museums and learn about the fascinating stories they hold. It’s a day to appreciate the hard work and dedication of the people who take care of these precious treasures.

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) stands as a champion for preserving and promoting the treasures of our natural and cultural heritage. With formal relations with UNESCO and consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, ICOM is a respected force in the world of conservation and education.

In 1977, ICOM created a special day to celebrate museums and their role in society. That day was May 18th, and it has since become a global phenomenon. Every year, museums from around the world come together to organize special events and exhibitions, inviting visitors to learn and engage with their collections. International Museum Day not only celebrates museums but also encourages them to collaborate with one another, sharing knowledge and expertise to ensure that our heritage is preserved for generations to come.

Each year, a theme is selected for International Museum Day to focus on a specific aspect of the museum’s role in society. The theme for 2023 is “Museums, Sustainability, and Well-Being”. There are many ways in which museums can contribute to achieving sustainability goals from supporting climate action and fostering inclusivity, to tackling social isolation and improving mental health. They can do this through educational programs, community outreach, and research.

Each year since 2020, International Museum Day supports a set of Goals from the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. In 2023, they will focus on:

1. Goal 3 Global Health and Well-being: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages, in particular concerning mental health and social isolation.
2. Goal 13 Climate Action: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, adopting low-carbon practices in the Global North and mitigation strategies in the Global South.
3. Goal 15 Life on Land: Protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, amplifying the voices of indigenous leaders and raising awareness on the loss of biodiversity.

International Museum Day is a momentous occasion that brings together museums from all corners of the world, uniting them in a celebration of cultural diversity. Through this celebration, museums have the chance to share their unique stories, highlighting the rich and varied tapestry of our global heritage, while promoting cross-cultural understanding and mutual respect.

This day also serves as a powerful tool for raising public awareness about the vital role that museums play in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. They are not just repositories of history, but also centers of knowledge and understanding, where visitors can engage with art, science, and other areas of interest, deepening their appreciation for the world around them.

International Museum Day encourages people to explore their local museums, discovering new and fascinating insights into the past, present, and future. By doing so, visitors can also engage with their local communities, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

The world has some of the most remarkable museums, and here are the top five museums that you should visit:

The Louvre Museum, Paris, France

The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most famous museums, located in Paris, France. It is home to over 35,000 artworks, including the famous painting of Mona Lisa. The museum also has an extensive collection of sculptures, antiques, and decorative arts.

The British Museum, London, UK

The British Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world and is home to over eight million exhibits, covering the history of human culture from its earliest days to the present. It houses some of the most famous artifacts, such as the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City, USA

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest museums in the world, located in New York City. The museum has an extensive collection of over two million works of art, including ancient artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from different cultures around the world.

The Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia

The Hermitage Museum is located in St. Petersburg, Russia, and is one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. The museum is home to over three million exhibits, including some of the most famous paintings, sculptures, and antiquities from around the world.

The National Museum of China, Beijing, China

The National Museum of China is located in Beijing, China, and is one of the largest museums in the world. The museum houses over one million exhibits, including ancient artifacts, pottery, sculptures, and paintings that tell the story of China’s rich cultural history.

Beyond encouraging museum visits, International Museum Day also provides a platform for museums to showcase their collections, engage with audiences, and advocate for the importance of preserving cultural heritage. It is an opportunity for museums to collaborate globally, sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas to advance the field of museology and enrich the experiences of visitors everywhere.

The beginning of International Museum Day was humble but has grown significantly over the years. More than 37,000 Museums participated in the event in about 158 countries and territories. ICOM has urged all the members of civil society to come together on May 18 and realize the full transformative potential that museums have for sustainability and well-being.

So let us raise our voices in celebration of museums, and all they represent. Let us come together in a spirit of discovery and wonder, and rededicate ourselves to the joy of learning. For on this day, and every day, museums show us the very best of what humanity has to offer.

–Nidhi Raj is an independent writing professional, storyteller, and mother with a keen interest in women’s issues and international relations.