Exhibition on Ancient Americas Civilizations Opens at Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum opened its doors on July 17, 2026, to "On Top of the World Tree: Ancient Civilizations of the Americas." This major exhibition, the largest ever focused on the ancient Americas, features 1,129 object groups, comprising nearly 3,000 items, from leading museums and cultural institutions in Mexico, Peru, and China. Organized in collaboration with the cultural ministries of these nations, the exhibition is structured around the concept of the World Tree, a central cosmological element in many ancient American civilizations.

Spanning almost three millennia, the exhibition offers a comprehensive survey of ancient American civilizations. Across more than 7,000 square meters of gallery space, artifacts are presented within their historical and cultural contexts to reveal connections between different societies. Rather than a purely chronological display, the exhibition incorporates high-fidelity reconstructions and multimedia installations, including immersive environments, to convey the engineering achievements and spiritual worlds of these cultures.

The immersive experiences, extending over 10,000 square meters, go beyond the galleries to engage multiple senses. Visitors traverse an experience that begins outdoors with a maize field installation and culminates with a World Tree structure in the museum's central atrium. The Shanghai Museum has also developed an integrated cultural experience combining special exhibitions with merchandise, dining, and performances.

As part of the exhibition's reach, the Shanghai Museum has partnered with local institutions such as the Shanghai Zoo and Chenshan National Botanical Garden for a citywide program. This initiative aims to integrate the exhibition's themes with urban life by connecting artifacts with animals, plants, and food. Over 3,000 exhibition-inspired products will be available, alongside special events, VR experiences, and various programs. Themed transportation, including subway cars and river cruises, is also part of the strategy to enhance accessibility and visitor engagement.