A Freudian Tourist Attraction

A Freudian Tourist Attraction

The Freud Museum in Hampstead, London is significant for two reasons: as the one-time home of celebrated psychologist Sigmund Freud and is also as a reminder of the reason for his exile in England. Sigmund Freud was born in Austria to Jewish parents. During the anti-Semitic Nazi regime he was forced flee his native country and seek refuge in England. Having begun his career has a neurologist; Sigmund Freud soon became intrigued with the complexities of the human mind and its complex processes. Further studies into these areas helped him understand the nature of the human mind and his ground breaking research earned him the reputation of being the father of modern day psycho-analysis.

Freud came to England in the year 1938 and settled down in a quite suburb of London, the house that he bought remained in the family until the death of his daughter Ana Freud, who herself was a pioneer in child therapy in 1982. Following this tragedy the house was turned into a museum honoring the life and work of Sigmund Freud.


The architecture of the house dates back to the early 1920’s and appears in a distinctive Queen Anne style which is also referred to as the British Baroque style. The pride of place at the museum is taken by Freud’s therapists couch which bears huge symbolic relevance as he was noted for his deep analysis of the mental state of his patients. The house also contains numerous items of antique furniture that were accumulated by the family throughout the years.

Known as a lover of the arts, the museum also displays some of Sigmund Freud’s favorite paintings including a portrait of himself by Salvador Dali. Located in one of London’s intellectual suburbs the Sigmund Freud Museum is located within easy reach of London serviced apartments offered by St. Marks, near the financial district. London long stay apartments are a popular choice among many business travelers that visit the city.