University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Philadelphia, PA

The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was created for research. They collect, disseminate, and try to understand the world's cultural heritage. Research, scientific exploration, and exhibits are all on hand for students at the university as well as the public to enjoy. The university feels the public should have a way to learn about the different cultures in the world and the past. There are field and laboratory studies completed by students and professors to explain the human past and present. Educational programs, electronic communication, and much more are available.

The University has its roots in the 19th century. It was through William Pepper that the university began to grow. In 1899 the Free Museum of Science and Art was added to the college. Over the years the building has been added to like the 1924 Coxe Memorial Egyptian Wing. The latest addition occurred in 2002 with the Mainwaring Wing. With the numerous wings it can take two days to see every exhibit, though one can see a great many of the collections in one day if one does not linger.

Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday 10am to 4:30pm, and Sunday 1pm to 5pm. They are closed on holidays and often on the Sunday before a holiday. Instead of requiring an admission the museum has suggested admission donations. They would appreciate $10 for general admission, $7 for seniors, and $6 for children and students with a full time college ID. Anyone that is a museum member or under 5 can enter for free. There is also a pay what you want day. It means after 3:30pm on Tuesday through Saturday and after 4pm you can pay what you wish. The museum has been founded on free entry, so you will not be turned away, but if you can afford to give a little something it is wise to do so.

The museum has a gift shop and restaurant. As for the exhibits there are numerous options. For example a non permanent exhibit through May 2010 is the Righteous Dopefiend. This exhibit looks at addiction and poverty in Urban America. What in the World is all about an interactive exhibit with art. The exhibit is based on a 1950's TV show called What in the World.

Long term exhibits that usually remain unchanged, except for a few artifacts, include the African Gallery, Amarna, and Buddhism. The African Gallery has a number of different artifacts ranging from the 50 countries of Africa. Visitors will see desert, rainforest, mountains, woodlands, savannas, and grasslands in photos and the displayed items. Amarna is all about Ancient Egypt and its place in the world, especially Tutankhamen and the gods the Egyptians believed in.

Canaan and Ancient Israel, Chinese Rotunda, Iraq's Ancient Past, Islamic Barrier, Living in Balance, and the Mesoamerican Gallery are a few more exhibits on display. A part of each continent will be displayed in the museum, looking at the most popular times or cultures of history.