Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard

The Galloway Hoard is one of the most important UK archaeological finds of the century.   

Buried around AD 900, and discovered in 2014 by metal detectorists, the Galloway Hoard brings together a stunning variety of materials and treasures from Ireland, the kingdoms of early medieval England, and as far away as Asia. Containing over 5kg of silver, gold and other materials, the careful way it was buried helped preserve incredibly rare organic materials such as silk and other textiles. With its unique range of rare objects and ancient heirlooms, it has transformed our understanding of the era we call the Viking Age in Scotland.   

The Hoard transports us back to a critical moment in history: the formation of the political entities we now know as Scotland, England and Ireland, in a time of Viking raids. 

Over 90 objects will go on display for the first time in Melbourne, offering visitors a tantalising glimpse into who buried the Hoard, their stories, the world of Viking Age Scotland, and the cutting-edge conservation and research now revealing its secrets.

National Museums Scotland

National Museums Scotland is one of the leading museum groups in the UK and Europe and it looks after collections of national and international importance. The organisation provides loans, partnerships, research and training in Scotland and internationally. Our individual museums are the National Museum of Scotland, the National Museum of Flight, the National Museum of Rural Life and the National War Museum. The National Museums Collection Centre in Edinburgh houses conservation and research facilities as well as collections not currently on display.