AN exhibition of The Galloway Hoard, the richest find of rare and unique Viking-age objects ever made in Britain or Ireland, is heading down under.
Buried around 900 AD and discovered in 2014, the Galloway Hoard contains a variety of objects and materials buried together at one time. This will be the first time that material from the hoard has been seen outside of the UK, as it will be going on display at at the South Australian Museum from 8 February to 27 July 2025.
Dr. Martin Goldberg, principal curator of medieval archaeology and history at National Museums Scotland, said: “The Galloway Hoard has repeatedly drawn international attention since its discovery and acquisition by National Museums Scotland.
“But this hoard was in many respects a journey into the unknown, and the exhibition presents all the amazing discoveries we have made through our research. We’re delighted the exhibition can now be seen by audiences outside the UK, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience these exceptional objects in person.”
Many of the objects are types that have never been seen before in Britain and Ireland, including beads, pendants, brooches, bracelets, relics and other curios, often strung or wrapped with silk.
Some had travelled thousands of miles to reach Scotland. Some items are too fragile to travel long distances, particularly those which still have rare traces of textiles that have survived for more than 1000 years. The exhibition will employ audio visual and 3D reconstructions to enable visitors to experience these objects and learn more about the detailed research that is being done.
Dr. David Gaimster, chief executive officer of the South Australian Museum, added: “The Galloway Hoard is a rich collection in every sense, from rare and unique examples of gold and silver-work that shows the artistry of the period to items of hacked bullion that show the intensity of trade and exchange.
“We are delighted to partner with National Museums Scotland to bring the Galloway Hoard halfway across the globe for Australian audiences to experience up close – a turn of events the Hoard’s original owners could scarcely have imagined.”
