The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) is one of the University of Cambridge’s most remarkable museums, showcasing an impressive collection of artefacts from across the globe. Established in 1884, the museum was initially created to house and study the University’s anthropological and archaeological collections, which had been steadily growing through donations and fieldwork by Cambridge scholars.
The museum’s founders aimed to offer a space for the public, students, and academics to explore human history and culture through objects.
Today, the MAA boasts an extraordinary collection of over a million artefacts from all inhabited continents, spanning more than two million years of human history. The museum has strong ties to notable figures such as Captain James Cook, whose expeditions brought back important Polynesian artefacts, and pioneering anthropologists like Alfred Haddon. It is renowned not only for its collections from Oceania, Africa, and the Americas but also for its rich archaeological findings from across the UK and Europe. As both a research institution and a public museum, the MAA plays a crucial role in the study and appreciation of human culture and history.
What to See In This Museum
At the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, visitors can explore a diverse array of exhibits covering both archaeology and anthropology. The museum is famous for its ethnographic collections, which include striking objects from Oceania, such as intricately carved wooden masks and canoes from the Pacific Islands. Highlights include artefacts from the voyages of Captain Cook and stunning items from Africa, Asia, and the Americas that reveal the cultural diversity of human societies.
In the archaeology galleries, visitors can discover objects from prehistoric Britain, such as ancient tools, pottery, and Roman artefacts. The museum’s collection of Anglo-Saxon treasures, including jewellery and weaponry, is also a must-see. Temporary exhibitions often showcase new research and collections, bringing fresh perspectives on human history and cultural exchange.
How to Get There
The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology is conveniently located in the centre of Cambridge on Downing Street, just a short walk from the city’s main attractions. If travelling by train, Cambridge Station is about 20 minutes on foot or a 10-minute bus ride away.
Local buses, including routes such as Citi 1, 3, and 7, stop close to the museum. Parking in the city centre can be limited, so it is recommended to use one of Cambridge’s park-and-ride services if you are driving. The museum is also easily accessible by bicycle, with cycle parking available nearby, reflecting Cambridge’s reputation as a bike-friendly city.
