Smithsonian Institution

Washington, D.C., United States

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The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, created in 1846 with a gift from English scientist James Smithson to support the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.”

It includes numerous museums, galleries, research centres, libraries, and the National Zoo, with collections spanning art, history, science, culture, and the natural world. Visitors can explore famous attractions such as the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History.

The National Museum of American History, many of which offer free admission. The Smithsonian plays a major role in preserving heritage, advancing research, and sharing knowledge with people from around the world.