World Museum Day – Some of the Most Unique Museums Across the World
In 1977, the International Council of Museums adopted May 18th as World Museum Day. The celebration is meant to bring focus to the hundreds of thousands of museums all over the globe, encouraging people through their doors to enjoy something new and aid the museums in keeping their displays open and accessible to the public. As tens of thousands of people pour into the world’s most famous museums every week, we decided to bring attention to a few that are little more unusual! Keep reading to find out about some of the most unique museums across the world.
Czech Republic
Prague has a museum on virtually every street. They range from the traditional and historical, to the modern and quirky. A keen museum goer could spend a week just visiting the variety of museums on offer! One of the most unusual ones is the Kafka Museum. Dedicated to the life of this great Philosopher, you can learn all about his life in the heart of the city that shaped him.
This media-rich exhibition is coupled with artefacts from Kafka’s life, his personal possessions give a unique insight into this great man’s mind.
England
London also has a wide range of museums, but there is a definite love of the unusual in the capital. A host of private collections and residencies, lovingly displayed make London a must-visit for those who love to experience the quirky.
The Museum of Brands and Packaging, Notting Hill is a collection of over 12,000 items collected from the early 1800’s onward. Walking along a development timeline of advertising, this museum is filled with nostalgia and gives a real-life insight into the growth of the industry and it’s effect on popular media.
UAE
Coffee fans will love the smell that hits them as soon as they walk through the door at Dubai’s historical journey through the life of much-loved beverage. Whilst The Coffee Museum is small, there is a lot of care and attention put into this wonderfully curated gem. With a very personal feel, live demonstrations and the opportunity to taste some great coffees from around the world, it’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
Japan
A museum dedicated to dried instant noodles? It exists in Japan at the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum. As absurd as it may seem on the surface, there is a real story about the creator of these world famous noodles and his struggle to create a cheap and long-lasting meal for the poorest citizens after World War II. With a tasting room where you can prepare your own Ramen and a museum shop, this is definitely one of the quirkier museums you might visit!
Poland
The Neon Muzeum in Warsaw in nestled away on the outskirts of the city. Packed with rescued retro signage, all given pride of place, there is a collection of material supporting the individual backstories of each displays, including photographs of them in-situ in their original homes. A strong narrative of Poland’s history can be followed through these signs, which otherwise would have been lost to history. A unique and interesting mix of art and historical material, this is a must-see for anyone visiting Warsaw.
Spain
In a country full of rich history, culture and iconic landmarks, the range of attractions is suitably varied. One of the most interesting is the Museu de Carrosses Fúnebres, the Museum of Funeral Carriages. Situated in the basement of a long-established funeral director, this collection dates back to the 18th century. The grandeur of the dressed carriages on display transports visitors back to a time where funerary parades were of utmost importance in broadcasting your social status. Coupling nicely with this museum is Cementiris de Barcelona, just next door. The most important funeral library in Spain and one of the most impressive in existence, this is a treasure trove for those interested in the development of funerary customs of lost and distant civilisations.
We hope you have been inspired by this look at some unusual museums and decide to seek out something new to discover today, wherever you are in the world. Over 36,000 museums worldwide took part in the event last year and participation continues to grow. Many hold special one-day exhibitions, reduced or free entry and other unique experiences as part of the event so remember to check their site for offers. Let us know what you discover today!