University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology is an archaeological and anthropological museum at the university in Philadelphia. The galleries span multiple floors and group objects by region of origin, from ancient Egyptian burial goods to pre-Columbian sculptures.

The institution arose in the late nineteenth century from university excavations in the Near East and Mediterranean. The building grew in stages, with different architects adding new wings between the 1890s and 1970s.

The galleries present everyday objects and ritual items from societies across continents, including tools, jewelry, and pottery that reflect how people lived centuries ago. Visitors can see how different cultures shaped their surroundings and expressed their beliefs through material remains.

The entrance is on South Street near the campus, with signs directing visitors to different galleries inside. Parts of the building are accessible, and coat checks and restrooms are located on the ground floor.

One room holds an Egyptian statue weighing over 12 tons (more than 11,000 kilograms) that was moved to its current spot only a few years ago. Its new location transformed the entrance area into a kind of oversized reception with pharaonic presence.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: 1887

Founders: William Pepper, Sara Yorke Stevenson

Architects: Wilson Eyre, Frank Miles Day, Cope and Stewardson

Official opening: 1887

Operator: University of Pennsylvania

Address: 3260 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19104

Opening Hours: Mardi 10:00-17:00; Mercredi 10:00-20:00; Jeudi-Dimanche 10:00-17:00

Phone: +12158984000

Website: http://penn.museum

GPS coordinates: 39.94900,-75.19110

Latest update: December 13, 2025 22:03