The 9 weirdest museums in the world
Sep 23, 2024
Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, India
This museum takes you on a wild flush through the ages of human sanitation. From ancient chamber pots to modern-day commodes, it’s a surprisingly educational (and borderline hilarious) dive into the evolution of bathrooms of human civilization. Their collection is divided into ancient, mediaeval and modern, and even includes a decorated Victorian seat!
Credit: BCCL
Medieval Crime Museum, Germany
Committing crimes in the past was painful, which is why this museum is not for the faint of heart. The display includes terrifying torture devices from medieval times, and you’ll leave thankful that modern-day punishments don't involve racks or thumbscrews for stealing a loaf of bread.
Credit: iStock
Avanos Hair Museum, Türkiye
Looking for something a bit more bizarre? This cave museum called ‘Chez Galip Hair Museum’ houses locks of hair from over 16,000 women, all donated voluntarily. It’s creepy and fascinating—like a giant Pinterest board made of actual hair. Talk about a ‘hair-raising’ experience!
Credit: Chez Galip Pottery/Facebook
Cup Noodles Museum, Japan
The sanest museum in this list, the Museum of Cup Noodles is heaven for people who love ramen. Learn how this quick meal became a global phenomenon, and you can even make your own custom cup of noodles! iStock
Credit: iStock
Kuching Cat Museum, Malaysia
If you're a cat person, this museum is your Mecca. With over 4,000 cat-related items, from ancient Egyptian feline statues to quirky modern art, it’s purr-fect for people who spend hours watching cat reels.
Credit: iStock
The Gum Wall, Seattle
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—a wall completely covered in chewed gum. Gross? Yes. Weirdly beautiful? Maybe. Just remember, participation is optional (but kind of encouraged if you want to leave your mark!). iStock
Credit: iStock
Condom museum, Thailand
This museum might sound scandalous, but it's an important educational stop. With a light-hearted approach, it showcases the history of condoms and their role in promoting safe sex.
Credit: Museum Thailand
The Kunstkamera, Russia
One of the oldest museums in Russia, featuring oddities like deformed foetuses in jars and other preserved anatomical parts. If you’ve ever wanted to experience a simulated fever dream, this is the place for you!
Credit: iStock
Museum of Enduring Beauty, Malaysia
If you think the internet has set unrealistic beauty standards for people, you’ve been mistaken. This museum explores old and extreme body modifications and beauty practices from around the world, like foot-binding and lip stretching. It’s fascinating but will make you grateful for modern beauty standards!
Credit: iStock