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See the Galloway Hoard

These unique and rare Viking-age objects lay hidden for a thousand years, but are now saved for the nation thanks to you!
Exhibition information

When

16 June - 29 October 2017

Where

National Museum of Scotland, Grand Gallery, Level 1

How much

Free

The Galloway Hoard is an extraordinary find of Viking-age gold, silver and jewelled treasures. It's the richest collection of rare and unique Viking-age objects ever found in Britain or Ireland.

The Hoard transports us back to the beginning of the tenth century, an important time in the development of the modern nations of Scotland, England and Ireland. Unlocking its secrets has the potential to reveal significant new insights into this period of history.

It brings together over 100 gold, silver and other items from across Ireland, the Anglo-Saxon world, the Holy Roman Empire, Byzantium and beyond, hinting at previously unknown connections between people across Europe and further afield.

Supporters from around the world joined together to help us raise the £1.98 million required to save the Galloway Hoard for the nation. Come and see it now before we start the vital work to conserve the Hoard and unlock its secrets for future generations.

Why is the Hoard important?

The Galloway Hoard is an unparalleled treasure hoard of Viking-age gold, silver and jewelled treasures. It is the richest collection of rare and unique Viking-age objects ever found in Britain or Ireland. Of international significance, it will transform our understanding of this period of Scottish history.

Other finds from around Britain and Ireland have been exceptional for a single class of object – for example, silver brooches or armlets. The Galloway Hoard brings together a stunning variety of objects in one discovery, hinting at hitherto unknown connections between people across Europe and perhaps much further afield. It also contains objects which have never before been discovered in a hoard of this age, some of which are utterly unique.

Incredibly, textiles, leather and wooden fragments have also survived, providing an extremely rare opportunity to research and reveal many lost aspects of the Viking Age.

You can see images from the display below.

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