Aphrodite Exhibition and Classical Antiquities Guide at the Ashmolean Museum

This major exhibition traces the evolution of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, and desire, from her origins as an all-powerful deity in ancient Cyprus to her Roman transformation as Venus. Featuring over 200 artifacts, the exhibition explores how her myths and imagery have inspired art, literature, and imagination from antiquity to the present day.

Step into the world of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, and desire, who was later worshipped by the Romans as Venus. Today, she is primarily recognized as a symbol of passion, yet her history is far deeper and more complex than contemporary culture often reflects. This exhibition explores her beginnings on the island of Cyprus, where she was worshipped as an all-powerful goddess over 3,000 years ago, and traces her journey through the Greek and Roman worlds, revealing how her myths and iconography flourished. The exhibition features over 200 extraordinary objects, ranging from ancient sculptures, bronzes, and gems to terracottas dating from 1400 BCE through to the 21st century. By showcasing these diverse works, the display uncovers how the perception of the goddess evolved over the centuries, continually shaping our ideas of love and beauty. Visitors can expect a comprehensive narrative that links ancient archeological findings with the continued influence of Aphrodite in art, literature, and human imagination throughout history.

Standard tickets are £16.80 or £19.00 with Gift Aid, and booking in advance is recommended to guarantee entry. Members and Patrons receive free entry and do not need to book, though they should present proof of membership on arrival. A Smartify audio guide narrated by classicist Natalie Haynes is available to pre-book for £5, which can be enjoyed on personal devices during the visit; headphones are recommended, but limited options are available at the exhibition entrance if needed. Concession tickets and free entry schemes for specific groups are available as detailed on the museum website, with proof of eligibility required upon arrival at the venue.