The Australian Museum is about to whisk you away on an epic journey to the ancient world of Peru, without you even leaving the city.
Mark your calendars for November 23, 2024, as the museum unveils “Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru,” a cultural blockbuster set to dazzle and delight. This exclusive exhibition will be hosted only in Sydney and promises to be a must-see event.
With a treasure trove of 134 priceless artefacts, including glistening gold from royal tombs, stunning jewels, and intricate masks, you’ll be transported to the heart of five ancient Peruvian empires. These artefacts, courtesy of Peru’s Museo Larco and Museo de Sito Manuel Chavez Ballon, and brought to life by Neon Global, offer more than a glimpse into a world that thrived over 3000 years ago. And if that’s not enough to spark your wanderlust, the Virtual Reality experience, “Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor,” will take you on a breathtaking bird’s-eye tour of one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.
Kim McKay AO, the Australian Museum’s Director and CEO, expressed her excitement about hosting this extraordinary collection. “One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is a top bucket-list destination for many Australians, and this exhibition will further inspire visitors with its state-of-the-art storytelling alongside treasures from these intriguing ancient empires,” she shared.
This exhibition marks Sydney as the fourth global city to host these treasures, following a successful run in Boca Raton, Florida; Paris, France; and Milan, Italy. It’s not just a feast for the eyes and minds but also a significant cultural exchange, as noted by Peru’s Consul-General, Mr José Alberto Ortiz. “I’m delighted that the Australian Museum will be hosting this exhibition highlighting the rich history and culture of ancient Peru, enabling the people of NSW and beyond to experience Machu Picchu and all our country has to offer,” he remarked.
Beyond the cultural enlightenment, the exhibition is set to give Sydney’s economy a healthy boost too. After the roaring success of “Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaohs,” which broke attendance records and contributed over $57 million to the NSW economy, there are high hopes for this new venture to replicate that feat. “After the success of Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaohs, I’m looking forward to the opening day on 23 November when we will take our visitors on another journey back in time,” added Ms McKay.
Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting at $37.50 for adults and $20 for children, and VR tickets from $22. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or simply looking for an awe-inspiring day out, this exhibition promises to deliver in spades. So grab your tickets, and get ready to dive deep into the mysteries of ancient Peru right here in Sydney. It’s a journey through time and space you won’t want to miss!
- What: Exhibition and Virtual Reality Experience, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru
- When: Opens Saturday 23 November 2024
- Where: Australian Museum, 1 William St, Sydney NSW 2000
- Exhibition Tickets: Off peak: Adult $37.50, Child $20, Family x 4 $94; Peak: Adult $42.50, Child $23.50, Family x 4 $110. VR experience: $22.00
More info at the Australian Museum website