House of Manannan

overview

Using state-of-the-art display techniques, the House of Manannan explores the Celtic, Viking and Maritime traditions of the Isle of Man. This exploration of themes essential to Manx nationhood was declared British Museum of the Year and given an award by the Society for the Interpretation of Britain’s Heritage for the Interpretation of Britain’s Heritage. Sitting by the harbour in the City of Peel, the award-winning building draws upon Manx vernacular architecture and looks across to the stronghold of Peel Castle.

Manannan is the Island’s great mythological sea god and protector who could shroud the place with a cloak of mist to protect it from its enemies. As a shapeshifter, Manannan could appear in many guises and in his ‘House’ he himself acts as the visitor’s guide sometimes a god, sometimes a sailor, sometimes in other forms.