The museum holds a significant collection of Egyptian antiquities, including a rare collection of shabti figures.
It features one of the most comprehensive collections of Japanese woodblock prints in the UK.
The building was specifically designed to house these collections and opened its doors in 1960.
It manages a significant collection of artifacts from the Silk Road, illustrating the trade history between East and West.
The museum serves as a research facility for Durham University's Department of Archaeology and the Department of Theology and Religion.
The Oriental Museum in Durham is the only museum in the North of England dedicated exclusively to the art and archaeology of the Near and Far East. It is part of Durham University and houses a collection spanning over 5,000 years of history. The permanent galleries include dedicated spaces for Ancient Egypt, China, Japan, Korea, and the Islamic world. The collection contains over 30,000 objects, including jade carvings, ceramics, and textiles. The museum is located within the grounds of the university, slightly removed from the city's main medieval center. Visitors can explore the life and beliefs of ancient civilizations through well-preserved artifacts and interactive displays.
The central courtyard and the entrance sculpture garden provide the best natural light and architectural context.
Check the museum's digital portal before visiting, as some galleries rotate their exhibits to preserve delicate artifacts.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding university gardens.
The museum is smaller than major national institutions; plan your visit to focus on two or three specific geographic galleries for a more in-depth experience.
Do not mistake this for the main Durham University Museum of Archaeology, which is a separate entity located elsewhere in the city.
Closed on certain public holidays; check university term-time alerts for potential campus-wide access restrictions.
