Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard reveals an extraordinary archaeological discovery that is reshaping understanding of the Viking Age.
Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard is an exhibition from National Museums Scotland. It features the extraordinary hidden treasures discovered in Galloway, Scotland in 2014 and the research and conservation revealing its secrets.
This extraordinary collection of ancient treasures, buried for more than 1,000 years will go on display at the WA Maritime Museum from 18 December 2026 to 19 July 2027, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 21st century.
The Galloway Hoard is the richest and most varied collection of Viking-age objects ever found in Britain or Ireland. Buried around 900 CE, the Hoard contains more than 100 pieces, including silver and gold treasures, jewelled pieces, rare textiles and prized heirlooms.
The Hoard has transformed understanding of Scotland’s connections with the wider world during the early medieval period, bringing together objects and materials associated with the kingdoms of Britain and Ireland, mainland Europe and Central Asia.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see carefully conserved objects, revealing intricate decoration that has not been seen for more than a millennium. Alongside the objects, X-rays, CT scans and digital 3D models reveal details invisible to the naked eye, shedding new light on the people who assembled, treasured and ultimately buried the collection.
The exhibition also explores the painstaking conservation and research undertaken over the past decade to uncover the Hoard’s secrets, demonstrating how modern scientific techniques continue to change our understanding of the past.
Western Australian Museum CEO Alec Coles said the exhibition showcases one of the richest and most diverse collections of Viking-age objects ever discovered.
“The Galloway Hoard is remarkable not only for the extraordinary treasures it contains, but for the insight that it provides into the lives of the people of the Viking Age.
“Through the Hoard, we can look beyond the familiar image of Viking raiders and explore a much more complex story of wealth, power, spirituality and cultural exchange across the early medieval world.”
The WA Maritime Museum will complement the exhibition with a program designed to bring the period to life for a range of audiences. Planned activities include Treasures After Dark, an evening experience combining after-hours exhibition access with entertainment, food and drinks; The Viking Show, a family-friendly performance; and events celebrating Scottish heritage, alongside themed high teas and education programs.
Treasures of theViking Age: The Galloway Hoard opens at the WA Maritime Museum on 18 December 2026 and runs until 19 July 2027.
Tickets are on sale from Wednesday, 11 November 2026. For ticket purchases and more information, visit https://visit.museum.wa.gov.au/maritime/treasures-viking-age-galloway-hoard
