The Canadian Museum of History welcomes over 1.2 million visitors each year to its celebrated complex in the heart of the National Capital Region, making it one of the country's most-visited museum. With roots stretching back to 1856, it is one of Canada's oldest public institutions and a respected centre of museological excellence, sharing its expertise in history, archaeology, ethnology and cultural studies both within Canada and abroad. The National Collection consists of more than four million artifacts, specimens, works of art, written documents, and sound and visual recordings.
In addition to its ongoing exhibitions, including the spectacular Grand Hall, the First Peoples Hall, and the Canadian History Hall that provides a stunning showcase for more than 1,500 artifacts, including many of Canada's important historical treasures, each year the Museum presents a number of outstanding exhibitions focusing on Canadian and world history and civilizations. The Museum is also home to the Canadian Children's Museum.