27 May – 24 October 2021
10.00–17.00 (Fridays 20.30)
Room 30
The Sainsbury Exhibitions Gallery
Members free
Not a Member?
Join now for free entry to exhibitions.
Nero is known as one of Rome's most infamous rulers, notorious for his cruelty, debauchery and madness.
The last male descendant of the emperor Augustus, he succeeded to the throne in AD 54 aged just 16 and died a violent death at 30. His turbulent rule saw momentous events including the Great Fire of Rome, Boudicca’s rebellion in Britain, the execution of his own mother and first wife, grand projects and extravagant excesses.
Drawing on the latest research, this major exhibition questions the traditional narrative of the ruthless tyrant and eccentric performer, revealing a different Nero, a populist leader at a time of great change in Roman society.
Members do not need to book in advance to visit Nero. Please show your Membership card to gain entry.
There are school exclusive morning views of Nero starting from 23 September. Members can still access the exhibition at this time, but it may be busier than usual due to a high number of students visiting.
If you're visiting before your Membership card arrives, on the day of your visit, please bring the confirmation emails of your Membership purchase to the Membership Desk in the Great Court. We'll then issue a temporary card to access your on-site benefits.
Read the Membership FAQs page for any queries about your visit, or contact us at friends@britishmuseum.org
To ensure Members have the best experience, we're offering a range of Members-exclusive early morning and late night viewings. We'll continue to offer online events and content for you to explore the exhibition from the comfort of your own home.
We hope to welcome you back soon.
Discover Nero
Through some 200 spectacular objects, from the imperial palace in Rome to the streets of Pompeii, follow the young emperor's rise and fall and make up your own mind about Nero. Was he a young, inexperienced ruler trying his best in a divided society, or the merciless, matricidal megalomaniac history has painted him to be?
Contact the Membership office
Email: friends@britishmuseum.org
Phone: +44 (0)20 7323 8195
Opening times
Monday–Friday: 10.00–16.00
Closed: weekends and bank holidays
Visit the Membership FAQs for the latest information.