Scotland’s Style Capital: Glasgow
Published on August 7th, 2009.
From Medieval to Art Nouveau
Enjoy the countryside and coastal views as you pull into Glasgow, which is situated just 42 miles from Edinburgh. Glasgow has been named Scotland’s style capital, a well-deserved title, once you discover its art deco brasseries, stylish shops, cultural centers, more than 30 art galleries and museums and an annual program of performing arts and festivals. Stroll along the River Clyde and take in your share of architecture and design. Shopping, fine dining and nightlife aside, don’t miss Glasgow’s School of Art, The Burrell Collection and Glasgow Cathedral.
Glasgow School of Art
This landmark, which was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 1896, is an important and influential art nouveau building in the world of architecture. The Glasgow School of Arts remains a school so be sure to book a tour to explore the interior with Mackintosh’s famous flower motifs, a collection of Mackintosh furniture and its library – famous for its hanging clusters of lights and intricate woodwork.
The Burrell Collection
The Burrell Collection contains 9000 items from all over the world. Sir William Burrell was a lifetime art collector who donated his collection to Glasgow in 1944. Appreciate medieval art, tapestries, alabasters, stained glass and English oak furniture. There are many European paintings, including works by Degas and Cézanne, an important collection of Islamic art, and modern sculpture including works by Epstein and Rodin. All will be fascinated by the works from ages ago, from ancient China, Egypt, Greece and Rome. www.glasgowmuseums.com
Glasgow Cathedral
Glasgow Cathedral is the best preserved example of a large church to have survived the Reformation, and has one of the finest collections of stained-glass windows in Britain. A truly magnificent medieval building, the Cathedral is named after St Mungo, Glasgow’s patron saint, and is built on the site of his tomb, marking the birthplace of the city.
Filled under Festival & Events, Scotland.