Ulster Museum 50

UM50 Cover

50 years ago, the white stone and Belfast brick of the old Municipal Museum and Art Gallery, which first opened in 1929, was fused with smooth grey concrete forms to create the iconic original that stands today.

Since 1972, the Ulster Museum has provided a platform for bold new perspectives. Ulster Museum has continued to offer a global perspective throughout the last five decades. We’ve shone a light on our shared treasures and made space for diverse voices to be heard. At the same time, we’ve encouraged people to look out to the world beyond, bringing everything from dinosaurs to Da Vincis here for everyone to enjoy.

“The 50th anniversary is an important reminder of the role that the Ulster Museum has played, and will continue to play, in our society."

Kathryn Thomson, Chief Executive, National Museums NI

Through the Years

North Face UM 1929 — Northface, 1929

Aerial View UM 60s — Aerial View of Original Building, c. 1960-1961

Architects Impression 1960s — Architect's Impression of New Building Proposal, 1962

Collection Highlights

Ulster Museum 50, 1970s

1970s Collection Highlights

Prehistoric fish, the Spanish Armada and a Nobel Peace Prize

Ulster Museum 50, 1980s

1980s Collection Highlights

Lough Neagh's Woolly Mammoths, Irish Impressionists on tour and Belfast says Yeoo!

Ulster Museum 50, 1990s

1990s Collection Highlights

Robotic Dinosaurs, Huge Glass Bowls and the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement