National Gallery Of Victoria
National Gallery Of Victoria
5 minutes read•Published on 29-10-2024
Located in Melbourne, Australia, the National Gallery of Victoria is a notable art museum which was opened in 1861, making it the first and the largest in the country. The museum boasts of more than 70,000 pieces of artwork. Visitors can expect to see a range of art from Australia and around the world – from paintings, and sculptures to photography, printmaking, and fashion pieces. There is also a significant collection of Aboriginal art. The National Gallery of Victoria is a great place for people who are living in or visiting Melbourne to appreciate and learn about various kinds of art.
Tickets & tours
A selection of the best tours to experience the National Gallery Of Victoria with our partner GetYourGuide. These tours offer the best experience for visitors from all around the world.
A short history
The National Gallery of Victoria, often referred to as the NGV, is a popular cultural site located in Melbourne, Australia. Established in 1861, it’s not only Australia’s oldest public art gallery, but also one of the most frequently visited. It boasts a remarkable collection of more than 75,000 pieces of art, providing visitors a glimpse of history from ancient times to the present day.
The current building of the gallery was designed by the architect Sir Roy Grounds. It opened in 1968 and is admired as a notable piece of architecture. It’s known for its beautiful design that includes a large moat and a stunning stained glass ceiling in the Great Hall. In 2003, a second premise was opened called, The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia. That’s why the original building is now often called NGV International.
The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia is based in Melbourne Federation Square and holds the gallery’s collection of Australian art, including both Indigenous and colonial-era works. Meanwhile, NGV International is where international artworks are exhibited.
Over the years, the National Gallery of Victoria has gained prestige by hosting major global exhibitions and facilitating artistic activities. It has been the venue of significant events like the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series. Furthermore, the NGV is recognized for its educational and public-focused programs, which aim to deepen the public’s understanding and appreciation of art.
One reason to visit
The Aboriginal Shields Collection.
If you are considering a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, one thing you shouldnt miss is the Aboriginal Shields Collection. This set of items includes many historical and visually appealing shields made by the aboriginal people of Australia. Every shield is made with a lot of detail and every single piece speaks about the cultural history of the aboriginal people. When you visit this display, you can learn about the history of the aboriginal people and their customs, and also enjoy looking at special art pieces. This experience is suitable for people of all ages because it is educational. You can gain more awareness and knowledge about the original culture of Australia.
Getting there
From Melbourne CBD, head south on Swanston St towards Flinders Ln for 200 m. Turn right onto Flinders St/State Route 30 and continue for 550 m. Then, turn left onto St Kilda Rd/State Route 60 where you will find the National Gallery of Victoria after approximately 100 m on your right side. Please remember to pay attention to the signage and pedestrian crossing regulations for your safety during your walk journey.
Starting from Flinders Street Station, you could start off your bike journey towards the National Gallery of Victoria. Begin by turning right and heading west on Flinders St/Melbourne-1/State-Rte 60. After approximately 280m, take a slight turn right to merge onto St Kilda Rd/State Route 3. Keep going about 600m straight and you will find the museum set against the beautiful backdrop of the Melbourne skyline. Please remember to wear a helmet and follow all safety rules while riding your bike. Also, the path might get crowded during peak hours, so be vigilant and careful. Enjoy your ride and have a great time exploring the magnificent art collection at the museum!
To get to the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne by public transport, start from Flinders Street Station which is the city's main metro train station. You need to take the route number 96 tram from stop number 1 at Spencer Street. The tram will take you along the famous St. Kilda Road. Alight at stop number 14, which is directly outside the gallery. Alternatively, you could take a route number 1, 3/3a, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 tram and alight at stop number 14 at the Arts Precinct/St Kilda Road. It is important to note that tram travel within the central city area known as the 'Free Tram Zone' including the CBD and Docklands is free.
The National Gallery of Victoria is located at 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Australia. If you are traveling from Melbourne airport, head onto the M2 from Grants Rd/State Route 39/Melrose Dr and Departure Dr. Keep on M2 and take M1 to Kings Way/State Route 60 in Southbank. Take the Kings Way exit from M1 towards Queens Rd/State Route 60. Follow Queens Road and St Kilda Road/State Route 60 to your destination. It approximately takes 30 minutes (25.2km) via M2 and M1 depending on traffic. Note, parking is paid and available onsite. The entrance to the National Gallery of Victoria’s car park is via Sturt Street.