Key Details

Overview

Madame Tussauds building on Marylebone Road, London NW1.

The world-famous wax museum was founded by Marie Tussaud, who was born in Strasbourg, France, in 1761. Marie learned the art of wax modeling from her mother's employer, a physician named Philippe Curtius. When Marie was only six years old, her mother took her to live with Curtius, who taught her the art of wax modeling.

Marie eventually moved to England and began creating wax models of famous people. She opened her first exhibition in London in 1835, and it was an instant success. Over the years, the exhibition expanded and moved to several different locations in London before settling in its current location on Marylebone Road in 1884.

The building that now houses Madame Tussauds was originally constructed in 1812 and served as a private residence for a wealthy family. It was later used as a factory and warehouse before being converted into a wax museum in 1884.

Today, Madame Tussauds is one of London's top tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. The museum features lifelike wax models of famous people from around the world, including historical figures, sports stars, musicians, and actors.

In addition to its London location, Madame Tussauds has also opened museums in several other cities around the world, including New York, Las Vegas, and Sydney.

References:

1. "Madame Tussauds London History." Madame Tussauds London, www.madametussauds.com/london/en/about-us/history/.
2. "Madame Tussauds." Visit London, www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/284438-madame-tussauds.
3. "Madame Tussauds." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 25 Mar. 2023, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madame_Tussauds.