Review:

The Oriental Institute is Chicago's premiere research and collection museum for studies of the Near East, originally founded in 1919 by University of Chicago professor James Henry Breasted as a means to house and expand the collections and studies of the university's former Haskell Oriental Museum. Today, the museum showcases extensive collections of artifacts related to ancient civilizations throughout the Middle East, including ancient Egypt, Israel, Persia, Mesopotamia, Nubia, Iraq, and Iran, attempting to make connections about the rise of human civilization in the Near East and its implications on modern society. Significant works within the collection include the world-famous Megiddo Ivories and a collection of tablets detailing everyday life in the former Persian capital of Persepolis. Though daily admission is free, visitors should note that the museum requests suggested donation rates for adult and child visitors who are able to contribute to museum operation funds. Free parking is available all day on weekends and after 4:00pm on weekdays at the nearby Lexington Parking Lot, which is located on the university's campus half a block from the museum.

1155 E 58th St, Chicago, IL 60637, Phone: 773-702-9520

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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