Museum of Anthropology

Hidden within the campus of the University of British Columbia in Vancouver is the Museum of Anthropology, an architectural gem housing one of the world's most extensive collections of anthropological items. Intricately carved totem poles, figures, ceramics and other one-of-a-kind artefacts allow you to delve deep into fascinating cultures from around the world.

With over 500,000 artefacts in its collection, you’ll find objects from Africa, Indonesia, Oceania, China and India, along with fascinating exhibits commemorating the diverse cultural history of British Columbia. Understand a little more about the First Nations and other indigenous people of Canada through the vast collections of art and artefacts. The carefully curated exhibitions includes ritual masks, elaborately decorated canoes, beautifully carved figures, and jewellery.

Venture outdoors to see two reconstructed Haida houses and ten full-scale totem poles. An indigenous nation of the Pacific Northwest Coast, the Haida built the traditional buildings which became the epicentre of Haida social, economic, and political life.

One of the must-sees is Haida artist Bill Reid's magnificent masterpiece, The Raven and the First Men, a yellow cedar sculpture so prominent, it is featured on the Canadian 20 dollar note. Take advantage of the free gallery walks given by knowledgeable volunteers for some insight into the exhibitions.

From its modest roots in the basement of the main library where the University of British Columbia first stored its collection of ethnographic artefacts in 1947, the museum has grown both in stature and structure. Designed by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, the museum includes exhibition galleries, storage facilities, a resource library, and teaching laboratory. The grandiose glass panels seamlessly merge the great outdoors with the interior space, allowing many of the exhibits to bathe in natural light.

Stop by the café for a quick bite, and walk through the massive Gitxsan artist-carved doors into the museum shop to peruse the selection of original Northwest coast jewellery, masks, carvings, baskets and other crafts.

The Museum of Anthropology is a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, and parking is available. It’s also accessible by public transport.