Traveling Through Time and Space
Our first full day in London, which we were on our own for, was spent at the British Museum. But first we had to learn some things. Museums are free here, as culture and heritage are available to everyone. What we didn't know - you have to prebook your start time. Fortunately, we stopped to talk to the hotel concierge first.
That done, we then had to figure out how to get there, on the London Underground. This turned out to be actually quite straightforward - once we got to the right train station. The overground and underground are just across the street from eachother. It was Mom's first time on a subway- a new experience that she can check off her list!
We gave ourselves plenty of time, and took the opportunity to walk around a bit. We have been impressed by how green London is. There is a beautiful park every few blocks. And one had a coffee shop. We could learn a thing or two about that!
I owe my boss an apology, apparently it does not rain every day in England! We had absolutely gorgeous weather!
The building of the British Museum is as awe inspiring as it's exhibits!
The British Museum did not disappoint. There are impressive displays of ancient civilizations from around the world. King George III's library (any Bridgerton/Queen Charlotte fans out there?) was reminiscent of the Beast's library. Unlike Belle, I wasn't allowed to take any book! I did find the Odyssey and the Iliad though!
Some people make look at these galleries and complain about British Imperialism. The past is complicated, and many of these antiquated may not exist at all if it wasn't for wealthy collectors. Much of the Parthenon was destroyed by an explosion because the Turks used it to store gunpowder which ignited. Not to mention what would have been destroyed when regions were overtaken in war.
Seeing the actual Rosetta stone, with my own eyes, is literally a dream come true. I have been an Archeology buff as long as I can remember, and to see such magnificent artifacts gives me goosebumps.
You can only imagine what it would have been like, in ancient times, to approach an Assyrian gate, flanked by these guardians.
