About The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Discover the story behind one of the world's most prestigious cultural institutions
Our Mission and Purpose
The Metropolitan Museum of Art stands as a beacon of cultural excellence, dedicated to collecting, preserving, studying, exhibiting, and stimulating appreciation for works of art that collectively represent the broadest spectrum of human achievement at the highest level of quality. Our mission extends beyond mere exhibition – we strive to connect people from all walks of life with the transformative power of arts and creativity.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum has grown to become one of the world's largest and most comprehensive art museums. Our collection spans over 5,000 years of human creativity, featuring masterpieces from ancient civilizations to contemporary works. From Egyptian artifacts to European paintings, from Asian sculptures to American decorative arts, we house treasures that tell the story of human civilization.
Educational Excellence
Our educational programs serve over 500,000 visitors annually, offering lectures, workshops, and guided tours that make arts accessible to all ages and backgrounds.
Global Reach
With over 2 million works in our collection and millions of online visitors, we connect global audiences with the beauty and significance of human artistic achievement.
Our Commitment to Accessibility
The Metropolitan Museum believes that arts should be accessible to everyone. We offer free admission to New York State residents and students from New Jersey and Connecticut, ensuring that financial barriers never prevent anyone from experiencing the wonder of our collections. Our digital initiatives have made thousands of artworks available online, bringing the museum experience to homes and classrooms worldwide.
Visit Us
Address:
725 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
Phone:
+1 212-745-3896
Leadership and Vision
Under the guidance of our distinguished board of trustees and curatorial staff, the Metropolitan Museum continues to evolve while maintaining its commitment to excellence. Our team of world-renowned scholars, conservators, and educators work tirelessly to ensure that each visitor's experience is both educational and inspiring. We believe that through arts, we can build bridges between cultures, foster understanding, and create lasting connections that transcend time and geography.
Looking Forward
As we continue into the 21st century, the Metropolitan Museum remains committed to innovation while honoring tradition. Through new exhibitions, digital initiatives, and community partnerships, we strive to make arts more relevant and accessible than ever before. Our vision is to be not just a repository of beautiful objects, but a living, breathing institution that continues to inspire wonder, learning, and connection for generations to come.