Location:
161 Essex St.
Salem, MA 01970
The Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) is a world-renowned art and cultural museum located in Salem, Massachusetts. Founded in 1799, it is the oldest continuously operating museum in the United States, and is renowned for its extensive collections of art, culture, and maritime history from around the world.
The museum's vast collections span a broad range of genres, including American and European art, photography, Asian art and artifacts, African and Oceanic art, Native American art and artifacts, and maritime art and history. Among the museum's most notable holdings are its collections of Chinese export art, Japanese woodblock prints, and maritime art from New England.
The museum is housed in a complex of interconnected buildings that includes a series of historic structures that have been renovated and expanded over the years to provide a modern, state-of-the-art facility for the museum's collections and exhibitions. The museum's centerpiece is a stunning atrium, which was designed by architect Moshe Safdie and features a soaring glass ceiling and a dramatic skylight that floods the space with natural light.
In addition to its permanent collections, the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase the work of contemporary artists and explore a wide range of themes, from the history of American craft to the art of Asia and beyond. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and resources for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, lectures, workshops, and interactive exhibits.
Overall, the Peabody Essex Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in art, culture, and history. Its extensive collections and dynamic exhibitions provide a unique and enriching experience that celebrates the diversity and creativity of the human experience across time and space.
People who work in Salem receive free general admission upon presentation of a business card or employee ID at the admissions desk.
For more information call: (978) 745-9500 or 866-745-1876
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