Ashmolean Museum - Tour by Uncomfortable Oxford™

Introduction

Welcome to the Ashmolean Museum - Tour by Uncomfortable Oxford™! This tour takes you on an uncomfortable journey through the first public museum in England, the Ashmolean Museum. Get ready to delve into the contentious histories embedded within museum spaces and engage in thought-provoking discussions about colonial origins, object transferral networks, and requests for repatriation. By questioning labels, displays, and exhibits, this tour seeks to explore the purpose of a museum and challenge traditional narratives.

What to expect?

During this 75-minute tour, you can anticipate a fully immersive experience in the Ashmolean Museum. As you embark on this guided exploration, you'll gain insights into the historical origins of the museum and the legacies of early colonial collecting practices. Engage in discussions about the focus on Greek and Roman culture, enslavement practices, and aesthetics in ancient sculpture. Reflect on the ethics of excavations, display, and replicas in the Hellenistic World. Explore the museum's display on colonialism and repatriation, designed to spark critical thought. Finally, conclude the tour by examining mummies and human remains as display items in the Egyptian Galleries.

Who is this for?

This tour is designed for curious individuals who seek a deeper understanding of history, challenging conversations about cultural artifacts, and the impacts of imperialism. Regardless of your background, this experience invites both locals and travelers to engage with the complexities of the museum space. It welcomes those who crave intellectual stimulation and aim to explore uncomfortable aspects of our shared past. Step into the shoes of an inquisitive learner and join Uncomfortable Oxford™ in this thought-provoking museum tour.

Why book this?

Embarking on the Ashmolean Museum - Tour by Uncomfortable Oxford™ is a unique opportunity to see museums through a critical lens. Led by expert guides, this academically researched tour fosters active discussion around historical memory, controversial statues and objects, and the lasting impact of imperialism on the city and university. By joining this tour, you are not simply observing artifacts, but actively participating in unpacking their narratives. Gain a fresh perspective on the purpose of museums and challenge prevailing historical interpretations. Engage in meaningful conversations that encourage personal growth and understanding.

Good to know

Accessibility is a priority on this tour, as the Ashmolean Museum is fully wheelchair accessible with opportunities for sitting throughout the experience. Wear comfortable shoes and come prepared for an intellectually stimulating journey. The meeting point is the Statue Gallery of the Ashmolean Museum, where your knowledgeable guide, easily identifiable by the blue vest and carrying the Uncomfortable Oxford logo tote bag, will be waiting for you.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the Ashmolean Museum - Tour by Uncomfortable Oxford™ have praised the tour for its thought-provoking content and engaging discussions. They found the tour guides to be knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience truly enriching. Visitors appreciate the fresh perspective offered by this unconventional tour, exploring controversial aspects of museum collections and challenging long-standing narratives. If you are seeking an intellectually stimulating and eye-opening museum experience, this is the tour for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to engage with history in a profound and thought-provoking way. Book your tour now and join Uncomfortable Oxford™ on an unforgettable journey through the Ashmolean Museum.