Madame Tussauds is the most popular and largest wax museum in the world. It exhibits more than 1000 exhibits of such different eras. The main building is located in the Marylebone area of London, and its branches are "scattered" around the world.
The history of this amazing place began almost 2 centuries ago on Baker Street (1835). However, like any story, it had its own fascinating backstory, originating in the workshop of Dr. Curtis.
A few facts from the life of Mary Tussauds
- Born in Strasbourg in 1761.
- He spent his childhood in France in the house of Dr. Philip Curtis (Tussaud's mother helped him to manage the household)
- Dr. Curtis first worked with wax anatomical models and later with figures; the girl became his apprentice
- Created her first wax figure at the age of 16 (Voltaire)
- Also famous works of Tussaud: Franklin, Rousseau, royal death masks
- After passing away, Philip Curtis left his works to Maria
Museum history
From France, Tussauds moved to London in 1802. In the early years of its existence, the wax exhibition was mobile and traveled throughout the Irish and British lands. Subsequently (1835), the sons managed to persuade their mother to settle on Baker Street. Londoners enthusiastically embraced the museum.
A huge role in the museum's gaining fame was played by the "Cabinet of Horrors", which was published in 1845 and continues to exist to this day. On display in the office were figures of recognizable criminals and murderers of that time, as well as a collection of death masks of those who died from the Paris guillotine.
The collection of artifacts grew. There was a need for a larger room. Ultimately, in 1884, the museum changed its location to Marylebone Road. There he stayed.
Big fire
In 1925, a large-scale fire broke out in the building. Most of the exhibits were destroyed. However, the owners of the museum were very lucky: the forms remained intact, thanks to which they managed to restore the lost copies.
The invaluable contribution of the Tussaud brothers
After Madame Tussaud's death in 1850, her sons inherited the museum. The brothers' contribution to the continuation of the mother's cause is invaluable. Previously, the shelf life of exhibits was only a few years. The heirs have made tremendous efforts to find a way to prolong the "life" of the figures. And they found it. The technology was patented and is applied practically unchanged to this day.
Museum today
In our century, when creating wax exhibits, modern technologies are used: a skin that looks like a real one, special plastic for the formation of nails and eyes of figures.
Moreover, at the present time, to recreate the atmosphere of the exhibitions, the following are used:
- Voice simulation using computer technology
- Adding additional sound effects
- Animated pictures in the background of the models
- Some exhibits are even capable of movement and reaction to visitors.
Wax Jennifer Lopez even blushes from the immodest looks of visitors.
Relevance of exhibits
Currently, the museum is filled not only with figures of historical figures, but also scientists, artists, politicians and other recognizable personalities and characters. Madame Tussaud's models are always interesting and relevant. The appearance of new exhibits is solemn, noisy, with many guests and even with the presence of the press. And the figures disappear as soon as the originals of the prototypes lose their relevance - modestly and imperceptibly.
You can even take a picture with wax figures hugging or kissing on the cheek. The administration, despite the wear of especially topical models, has nothing against it.
Museum pride and innovation
The Spirit of London is perhaps the most interesting exposition of the museum. It shows scenes from the life of London, dating back to different eras. From the reign of Elizabeth of England to the present.
A few years ago, a 4D show featuring Marvel's superheroes appeared in the museum - the kids are delighted with this innovation. This is a 10-minute film featuring famous comic book characters. 4D technology is an addition to the usual 3D special effects: moving chairs, wind, spray.
In addition, themed films are shown on very large screens, allowing you to plunge into the atmosphere of different historical eras of London: from the Great Fire of 1666 to the 20th century.
It would seem like child's entertainment, but most travelers consider Madame Tussauds an integral part of London's tourist program.
Ticket prices, address and opening hours
The information is indicative, the price tag is taken on a weekday in November from the official website of Madame Tussauds. Prices are in pounds.
You can check the prices for the scheduled day of visit (including weekends) and the entertainment program included in the price of standard and premium tickets on the official website of Madame Tussauds.
Address: Marylebone Road, London, London NW15LR
Opening hours in November:
- Mon. - Fri .: 9: 30-17: 30
- Sat, Sun: 9: 00-18: 00
- November 28 schedule change: 9: 00-17: 30
