Museum of Antiquities facts for kids
Museum of Antiquities entrance pictured in 2008; The building has since been demolished
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| Established | 1960 |
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| Dissolved | 2008 (merged into the Great North Museum) |
| Location | Newcastle upon Tyne, England |
| Type | Archaeology museum |
| Great North Museum | |
The Museum of Antiquities was a special place in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. It was an archaeological museum at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. This museum opened its doors in 1960. Its amazing collections later joined the Great North Museum: Hancock in 2009.
Contents
Discovering Ancient History
How the Museum Started
The Museum of Antiquities began in 1956. It was created by two groups: the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle upon Tyne and Durham University. Later, Durham University's part became Newcastle University in 1963. It quickly became the main museum for old history in north east England.
What You Could See
The museum showed the history of the region. It focused a lot on Hadrian's Wall and the Roman period. One cool exhibit was a full-size copy of a Roman temple. This temple was from the 3rd century and honored the god Mithras. It was originally found at Carrawburgh. The museum covered history from early times all the way to the 17th century.
Moving to a New Home
The Museum of Antiquities joined a big project called the Great North Museum. Because of this, its collections moved to the Hancock Museum. The museum closed on April 19, 2008, to get ready for the move. The new, improved Hancock Museum opened in May 2009. The old building that housed the Museum of Antiquities was taken down in 2011–2012. It had been a coke testing station after World War II.
Museum Achievements
Recognitions and Support
The Museum of Antiquities was a finalist for a big award in 2004. This award was the Gulbenkian Prize for Museum of the Year. The museum also received help from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This fund helps protect important heritage sites.
More Information
- Great North Museum – Visit the museum that now holds these collections.
