18 May is International Museum Day and there will be lots of events and activities to celebrate and to promote the role of art and culture in society. Make the most of this day to get away and discover the cultural heritage of other cities. Don't worry if you've already visited the most famous museums in Europe, because we have an alternative: the most curious museums in Europe. Here are just a few of them...
- Museum of Broken Relationships, Zagreb
Yes, there is actually an exhibition about broken relationships. Situated in the Baroque Kulmer Palace, at the top of the city, this museum displays personal items donated by anonymous people who want to tell their failed love stories. The story of the owners can be seen next to each item.
Highlight: The exhibition includes a wide range of items like a wedding dress, a garden gnome, a hair-band, a toaster, an iron and an engagement ring, amongst other things.
- Underwater Museum, Lanzarote
In the Canary Islands we can find the first underwater museum in Europe – specifically in Las Coloradas Bay, in the south of Lanzarote. This museum is 12 metres deep and allows divers and marine species to observe 300 sculptures displayed by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor.
Highlight: You might recognise some of the faces of these figures... You're not imagining it – the statues were made using people living on the island as models.
- Paris Sewer Museum
If we say "Paris" and "museum", the Louvre instantly comes to mind. But there are many other museums to be visited, like the Paris Sewer Museum. The City of Light is just as interesting beneath the surface. Go down a few metres to discover the spectacular sewer system that has been used for centuries until the present day, and was designed by engineer Belgrand in the 19th century.
Highlight: If you want to know more about sewers in Paris, Victor Hugo talks about them in his popular novel, "Les Miserables".
- De Kattenkabinet - Cat Cabinet, Amsterdam
Cat lovers will enjoy this place especially dedicated to our furry friends. The museum is situated next to the famous canals in Amsterdam and aims to reflect the role of cats in art and culture: paintings, sculptures, posters and, of course, all kinds of objects connected to the world of felines. Real cats will also come with you on your visit because the museum is their home!
Highlight: You'll be accompanied by cats while you visit this place. The museum is their home!
Which museum did you like best? If you've already decided, why not plan a getaway this spring to celebrate International Museum Day?
