The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often referred to as The Met, is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. Located in New York City, it was founded in 1870 and houses an extensive collection of over two million works of art. The museum's galleries span 5,000 years of history, showcasing pieces from various cultures and time periods. The Met is divided into three main locations: The Met Fifth Avenue, The Met Cloisters, and The Met Breuer. Each site offers unique exhibitions and collections, including European paintings, ancient artifacts, and American art. The museum attracts millions of visitors each year, making it a vital cultural institution.