National Museum Wales

This imposing, white, classic building with a columned entrance and a large cupola houses eclectic art and science collections. Along with City Hall, it stands at the Civic Centre. The diverse exhibits here focus on natural science, industry, archaeology, and geology, plus there are extensive collections of silver, china, and glass (some dating from 1250). The emphasis is on the story of Wales from the earliest of times. There are also modern and classic sculptures and works from Old Masters and from modern artists ranging from van Gogh to Kokoschka.

Much of the museum's ambience comes from the openness and light that fills the main entrance and hall below the high ceiling. From the floor of the rotunda, you can look up to the mezzanine gallery that girdles the main hall. The exhibits are at the head of the impressive staircase from the main hall. Also on this level is the French Impressionist collection -- our favorite part of the museum -- which includes Monet's Waterlilies, Renoir's Parisian Girl, and Manet's haunting The Rabbit. Here you can also see Rodin's bronze The Kiss and paintings by Rubens, Cézanne, Augustus John, and Brangwyn. A well-stocked bookstore is situated off the main hall.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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