Edinburgh museums are a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, there is something for everyone in this city. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular museums in Edinburgh, providing detailed information about each one, including the types of art and artifacts on display, special exhibitions, history and background, and availability of guided tours.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is one of the most popular museums in Edinburgh. It is a vast and diverse collection of art and artifacts that span the history of Scotland and the world. The museum is divided into several galleries, each dedicated to a specific theme or era. The museum’s collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary Scottish art.
One of the highlights of the National Museum of Scotland is the “Scotland’s Natural World” gallery, which features a wide variety of natural specimens from Scotland’s flora and fauna. The museum also has a large collection of scientific instruments and other technological artifacts, including the first television ever made.
Special exhibitions
The National Museum of Scotland regularly hosts special exhibitions, which provide an in-depth look into specific topics or themes. Some examples of past exhibitions include “The Art of the Book,” which explored the history of bookmaking and printing in Scotland, and “The Celts,” which delved into the culture, art, and history of the ancient Celts.
Guided tours
Guided tours of the National Museum of Scotland are available every day and are a great way to learn more about the museum’s collection and history. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth information about the various artifacts and exhibitions on display.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of the most popular museums in Edinburgh. It is dedicated to the history of Scotland through its people, showcasing portraits of some of the most important and influential figures in Scottish history. The gallery’s collection includes paintings, photographs, and sculptures of kings, queens, artists, writers, and other notable figures.
Special exhibitions
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery regularly hosts special exhibitions, which provide an in-depth look into specific topics or themes. Some examples of past exhibitions include “The Face of Scotland,” which featured a collection of portraits of famous Scottish figures, and “Scottish Art 1460-2000,” which delved into the history of Scottish art.
Guided tours
Guided tours of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery are available every day and are a great way to learn more about the gallery’s collection and history. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth information about the various portraits and exhibitions on display.
Royal Museum of Edinburgh
The Royal Museum of Edinburgh is one of the oldest museums in Scotland, founded in 1866. It is a diverse collection of art and artifacts that span the history of Scotland and the world. The museum’s collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary Scottish art.
One of the highlights of the Royal Museum of Edinburgh is the “Ancient Egypt” gallery, which features a wide variety of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, statues, and jewelry. The museum also has a large collection of scientific instruments and other technological artifacts, including the first television ever made.
Special exhibitions
The Royal Museum of Edinburgh regularly hosts special exhibitions, which provide an in-depth look into specific topics or themes.
