Nicholson Museum

It's hard to believe, but the largest collection of antiquities in the southern hemisphere can be found in the grounds of the University of Sydney. And it's completely free to visit.

Created in 1860 by Sir Charles Nicholson (who was also one of the University of Sydney founders), the Nicholson Museum is an unexpected and unassuming treat, the kind of place you almost expect to find Dr Henry 'Indiana' Jones doing a spot of research.

To commemorate the 200th anniversary of its founder's birth, the month of November will be turned over to celebrations - a gala event on Wednesday 5 and an open day on Sunday 23. The latter will feature talks on archaeology and history; hands-on artefact workshops; and the chance to participate in a mock dig.

"Sir Charles Nicholson really was dedicated to bringing the cultural traditions of England to Australia," says senior curator at the Nicholson Museum, Michael Turner. "In 1856 he travelled to Egypt and Europe where he purchased artefacts, many of which you can see in the Museum today. The space really is an enduring testament to the foresight and single-minded determination of one man."

Today, the museum is one of the only places in Sydney you can see a real mummy, examine tomb carvings and explore ancient worlds.