Modern social transformations have driven the traditional model of cultural relic conservation toward a modernization transition; as institutions dedicated to the collection and dissemination of cultural relics, museums’ developmental trajectory is inextricably linked to the evolution of conservation concepts. Traditional approaches to cultural relic preservation were confined to closed, private collections, whereas the introduction of the public-oriented concept of cultural heritage in modern times catalyzed a shift in perception. This paper traces the historical development of museums in modern times, examines the intrinsic connection between these two domains, explores pathways for the transformation of cultural relic conservation, and provides historical insights for the advancement of contemporary cultural heritage initiatives.