The Museum of Classical Antiquities was established in 1975 by the Department of Classics primarily for teaching purposes. Over the years our permanent collections has grown to include an excellent and representative ceramics collection, several sculptures and reliefs in stone and terracotta, an important Roman numismatics collection, and essentially a wide ranges of artefacts dealing with virtually all aspects of daily life in classical antiquity.

About our museum

Comprised of artefacts that reflect daily life during the period from the 7th century B.C. to the 7th century A.D., the permanent collection is enhanced by touring exhibitions and artefacts belonging to Canadian and foreign collectors.

Our programs offer several opportunities for undergraduates to participate in hands-on learning through a variety of workshops, activities and exercises which are normally incorporated into the courses offered by the Classics sector. In addition, interested students may submit applications to work as volunteers in several capacities in the Museum during the academic year. Many of our volunteers have gone on to pursue graduate work in museum studies, or have found various venues for museum employment in several contexts. We encourage students who are interested to seek us out at the beginning of term to find out about how they can be involved!

Museum cases

Museum Gallery Display Cases

Photo: Courtesy of Robert Lacombe, uOttawa
terracotta oil lamp

Terracotta Oil Lamp - Roman Carthage

Photo: Courtesy of Chandra Giroux, uOttawa
Fish plate

Fish Plate - South Italy - 4th c. BC

Photo: Courtesy of Chandra Giroux, uOttawa
Sarcophagus

Lead Sarcophagus Panels - Roman - 4th ce

Photo: Courtesy of Chandra Giroux, uOttawa
Textile

Textile Fragment - 7th ce

Photo: Courtesy of Chandra Giroux, uOttawa
Instrument

Sistrum

Photo: Courtesy of Chandra Giroux, uOttawa

Museum Strategic Plan 2025-2030

Raising Awareness in Modern Times

The Museum of Classical Antiquities at the University of Ottawa aims to establish itself as a key local museum dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the rich history of the ancient Mediterranean world. This strategic plan outlines the Museum’s vision, mission, core values, goals, and actions for 2025-2030, with a focus on engagement, innovation, and sustainability. With the support of its dedicated volunteers, faculty, and network, this plan charts a clear path to enhance the Museum’s role as a teaching, research, and community resource.

The full strategic plan is available upon request. To obtain a copy, please contact the Museum at [email protected]

The Museum Strategic Plan is also available here

Contact us

Museum Curator

John Serrati
Director of the Museum of Classical Antiquities
Room: Desmarais 10121

Isabelle Guérin
Collections manager

Advisory board

Museum hours

September 3, 2025 - December 19, 2025:

Monday to Friday, 10:00AM to 4:00PM. 

Guided tours are by appointment only, but we accept visitors without a reservation. Guided tours can be booked by email.

Location

Desmarais Building
55 Laurier Ave. East, 3rd Floor
Ottawa, ON Canada