Abstract: The origins of museums can be traced to ancient collecting practices. Over time, these evolved through systematic accumulation in the classical period, transitional development during the Renaissance, and formal institutionalization in the modern era. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the modern museum had emerged as a public cultural institution integrating the collection, preservation, research, education, and exhibition of artifacts related to humanity and the environment. Throughout this evolution, the public, academic, and educational functions of museums have steadily expanded, establishing them as key agents of socio-cultural advancement. With evolving societal needs, the definitions and functions of museums have also expanded. From their early focus on preserving and showcasing culturally significant objects, museums have broadened their scope to include education, scholarly research, and public engagement. They now function as vital urban institutions—serving as intellectual resources, educational platforms, and centers for cultural heritage and innovation. Museums play an indispensable role in enhancing urban cultural identity, strengthening social cohesion, stimulating tourism, and promoting cultural exchange. In the contemporary era, as demand for intellectual and cultural engagement increases, museums play a growing role in elevating a city's influence, reputation, and popularity. They are increasingly recognized as a new engine of urban development. Looking ahead, the evolution of new productive forces will drive museums toward trends such as digitization, interactivity, sustainability, and internationalization, reinforcing their significance and multifaceted contributions to urban life.