Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum in Camden reopens on Wednesday 17th March 2010 following a ?10 million transformation which brings the collections of the Jewish Museum and the former London Museum of Jewish Life under one roof for the first time. Through important historical artefacts visitors can start to understand what it means to be Jewish in modern, multicultural Britain. Four permanent galleries display the huge variety of objects relating to British Jewish life while new facilities include a gallery for changing exhibitions, a 100-seat auditorium, an education space and a cafe and shop on the ground floor. Highlights from the four permanent galleries include a recreation of an East End street and tailor's workshop, a map showing where Jews have come from around the world, ceremonial objects including the oldest English silver Hanukah lamp and a Yiddish theatre karaoke presented by comedian David Schneider. A medieval mikveh (ritual bath) from the 13th century, one of the most important archaeological finds relating to Anglo-Jewry, goes on display for the first time since its discovery in 2001 in Milk Street in the City of London. The lobby and stairwells feature more key objects from the collections, including a painted banner from the London Jewish Bakers' Union. The museum also offers excellent audio-visual programmes, interactive displays, changing exhibitions and cultural events.