Attraction Guide: Alexander Keiller Museum, Avebury, UK

Alexander Keiller Museum Guide

Unlocking Avebury's Secrets: A Journey Through Time Guide

Step into the Alexander Keiller Museum and prepare to be transported back thousands of years! This fascinating museum, located in the heart of Avebury, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Neolithic people who built this incredible stone circle. It's more than just artifacts; it's a story told through the objects they left behind, revealing their beliefs, rituals, and daily existence. Whether you're a seasoned archaeologist or simply curious about the past, the museum provides an engaging and accessible introduction to Avebury's rich history. The museum's collection is largely based on the archaeological finds of Alexander Keiller himself, a wealthy marmalade heir who dedicated much of his life and fortune to excavating and restoring Avebury in the 1930s. Keiller's meticulous work unearthed a wealth of information about the site, including evidence of houses, workshops, and ritual practices. The museum showcases these discoveries, including pottery shards, tools, and even human remains, providing tangible links to the people who once walked these very grounds. You'll learn about the different phases of Avebury's construction and use, from its initial creation around 3000 BC to its later transformations. Beyond simply viewing artifacts, the Alexander Keiller Museum offers a chance to truly connect with Avebury's past. Explore interactive exhibits, examine detailed maps and diagrams, and delve into the stories behind the objects on display. The museum shop offers a range of books and souvenirs to further your understanding and appreciation of Avebury. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly linked to the museum, the nearby village offers traditional pub fare and tea rooms where you can enjoy a taste of modern-day Wiltshire.