If you have any interest in the history and archaeology of the ancient Near East, you’ll wander the galleries of the Oriental Institute with goosebumps, slack-jawed. This museum on the campus of the University of Chicago houses one of the finest collections of Antiquities in North America. Some of the oldest cuneiform tablets--humanity’s earliest writing--here. A portrait of Sennacherib from Sargon’s Throne Hall--here, too. Friezes of Lions from Babylon, bull-headed columns from Darius’ Persia--all here. Amazing. Whether you’re interested in the sources of the Greek historians or Biblical archaeology, this museum alone would almost be worth a trip to Chicago...so it’s definitely worth the urban trek south from downtown.
More Recommendations
Assyria, Babylonia, Chaldea--in Chicago
If you have any interest in the history and archaeology of the ancient Near East, you’ll wander the galleries of the Oriental Institute with goosebumps, slack-jawed. This museum on the campus of the University of Chicago houses one of the finest collections of Antiquities in North America. Some of the oldest cuneiform tablets--humanity’s earliest writing--here. A portrait of Sennacherib from Sargon’s Throne Hall--here, too. Friezes of Lions from Babylon, bull-headed columns from Darius’ Persia--all here. Amazing. Whether you’re interested in the sources of the Greek historians or Biblical archaeology, this museum alone would almost be worth a trip to Chicago...so it’s definitely worth the urban trek south from downtown.
Underrated Chicago Museum
When you’re in Chicago -- and fall is the best time for doing this -- take a 15-minute field trip south from Downtown to Hyde Park to view the spectacular University of Chicago campus architecture among the co-eds, tour Frank Lloyd Wrights’ Robie House, and visit the Oriental Institute Museum. The Oriental Institute Museum -- a world-renowned showcase for the history, art, and archaeology of the ancient Near East -- (undeservingly) receives a lot less press than other Chicago institutions so you just might experience the luxury of having the place to yourself.
