Amassed by the collectors John and Gertrude Hunt, the museum features over two thousand unique objects, ranging from prehistoric stone tools and ancient Egyptian amulets to spectacular medieval carvings and modern paintings by masters like Picasso and Renoir. The layout is wonderfully intimate, allowing visitors to view priceless treasures up close in a beautiful, historic setting.
What makes this museum visit exceptional is the hands-on and highly personal design of the exhibitions. Unlike typical museums where items are locked behind glass, the Hunt Museum features specialized drawers that visitors are encouraged to open, allowing you to touch and feel selected ancient artifacts under the guidance of friendly staff. It is a highly engaging, sophisticated space that celebrates human creativity across millennia.
One fun fact people love:
The museum houses a rare, silver coin that is believed to be one of the thirty pieces of silver paid to Judas Iscariot for the betrayal of Jesus.
Where in Limerick is it?
Located on Rutland Street, situated in the historic center along the banks of the Abbey River.
How to reach:
Easily accessible on foot from King John's Castle or any central hotel, requiring a flat, five-minute walk through the streets.
Best time to visit:
Year-round; the indoor, heated galleries are a perfect cultural retreat on rainy or cold winter afternoons.
Best time of day:
Mid-afternoon around 2:00 PM to enjoy the quiet gallery rooms at your own pace before the museum closes.
Entry fee:
Tickets cost approximately 8 to 10 EUR per adult, with free entry for children and young students.
Commute difficulty:
Easy; centrally located on a flat, paved street with clear pedestrian pathways leading to the main entrance.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- The museum features a beautiful, quiet riverside garden in the back yard that is a fantastic spot to enjoy a cold drink on sunny summer afternoons.
- The museum cafe serves excellent, locally sourced dishes and overlooks the river, offering a peaceful spot for lunch.
- You can ask the reception desk for a free family activity pack, filled with treasure hunts that make the exhibits highly fun for kids.
