Most Popular Architectural Museums of the World
Art and architecture go hand in hand, especially when it comes to museums, operas, galleries, etc. Grand museums with beautiful design and stunning architecture are not solely visited because of what is inside, but also because of the building itself.
Visiting museums has become a popular pastime because of how fantastic they look – whether they be designed with a modern twist or stick to a more traditional exterior and interior. In tribute to such striking architecture, here are the very best museums to visit around the globe.
The Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar
Sitting on the peninsula of the Doha waterfront sits this beautiful museum, which comprises a five-story main building that is smooth, clean, and peaceful looking, taking great inspiration from its surrounding Islamic architecture. The Museum of Islamic Art was designed by I.M. Pei, the Pritzker Prize-winning architect.
The Hanoi Museum, Vietnam
Seemingly upside-down, this inverted pyramid building in Vietnam is quite a sight to behold. You’ll notice when viewing this museum in real life that it was designed to replicate and sit peacefully amongst the city’s traditional villages and architecture.
The Guggenheim Bilbao, Spain
The Guggenheim Bilbao Museum is crafted from titanium, glass, and limestone, seeming to make an effortless curvaceous design. This museum’s exterior has been compared to many things, such as a bouquet of flowers and a boat – because of this thought-provoking design, The Guggenheim Bilbao has become one of the world’s favorite museums.
The Natural History Museum, England
First opening its doors in 1881, The Natural History Museum is a grand building with large open halls and highly-detailed ceilings. Renowned because of the dinosaurs that reside inside the building, be sure to take the time to gaze around you and see your surroundings. The building reflects how museums used to be viewed as an expensive endeavor that only the affluent could enjoy, but nowadays it is freely accessible.
The Ordon Museum, China
For many, this museum looks like a giant blob, refusing to blend in with the surrounding buildings. Its rustic coloring complements the Chinese Gobi desert it sits within, and its modern design fits the new town of Ordos – a town that was built in 2004. Because of its lack of residents, you’ll feel like you are exploring a ghost town, adding to its atmosphere.
Glyptoteket, Copenhagen
This is a truly wonderful museum to visit. Not only is there a selection of art to gaze upon, from modern to traditional, but there’s a beautiful winter garden for you to walk around or drink coffee and have a slice of cake within. Peaceful is one word that describes this museum.