Today, Chris and I went to the Canadian Museum of History—our first visit there in 20 or more years.

Our primary destination was the special exhibit called the First Royals of Europe. The Museum's website describes it this way:

First Royals of Europe takes visitors on an epic journey spanning 6,500 years — from the Neolithic Age to the end of the Iron Age and the dawn of empires — when precious metals were first smelted into copper axes, bronze swords, and silver and gold jewellery, and warriors built armies to rule the masses.

For the first time in Canada, more than 700 rare and exquisite objects from 26 institutions across southeastern Europe have been brought together to explore how individuals grew their power by amassing wealth and controlling trade, rituals, ceremonies and warfare.

It was an exquisite exhibit, interesting not only for the objects on display but also for its commentary on the emergence of different classes, including royalty. Before the discovery of precious metals and the means to extract and harness them, people of the Neolithic Period lived mostly in agricultural settlements, raising crops and keeping domestic animals. But as knowledge of metals and their potential grew—first in the Copper Age, then in the Bronze Age and subsequently the Iron Age—those with the ability to craft weapons and amass armies could use this strength to control territories, goods and people.

While at the Museum, we took the opportunity to watch two films in the CINÉ+ theatre: Turtle Odyssey – Bunji’s Big Adventure and Sea Lions: Life by a Whisker. While they may have been targeted to a younger audience, both films were informative and beautiful to watch. Sitting in the theatre also made for a welcome respite from constant standing.

We also had lunch at the Museum's Panorama Café, which I would recommend both for the quality of the food and the hospitality of its staff. Chris had a cobb salad, which was so good that we would make a point to return for that alone. My daily special of mashed avocado on multigrain toast was also satisfying. We might have spent more time on the Panorama Patio—taking in the view of the Ottawa River, Parliament Hill and the Chateau Laurier—but today's heat quickly drove us back into the coolness of the Café.

I'm glad that we recently purchased a one-year membership to the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum, which allows us to visit both museums as often as we like over the next 12 months. Today, we saw only a fraction of what the Museum of History has to offer, so we will definitely go back. Similarly, we've visited the War Museum several times in recent weeks and have yet to take it all in. In addition to unlimited visits, membership provides for a 25% discount on parking, a 15% discount at the Museums' Cafés and a 10% discount on Gift Shop purchases.

The First Royals of Europe runs until January 19, 2025. If "the origins of power and inequity in ancient southeastern Europe" interest you, you will appreciate this exhibit.