The Manchester Museum has been awarded this year’s top honor at the European Museum of the Year Awards, announced during the final day of the EMYA2025 Conference held in Poland at the Sybir Memorial Museum in Białystok.
With a stated aim to be the “most inclusive, imaginative, and compassionate museum you will ever encounter,” the Manchester Museum received recognition during a year centered around themes of “Remembrance and Solidarity for Collective Action.”
As part of the University of Manchester, this natural history museum came into existence in 1867 and houses approximately 4.5 million specimens collected across all continents. Among these treasures are archaeological finds, anthropological artifacts, and even living creatures within an onsite vivarium containing various amphibian species. Notably, this exhibition stands out as one of the few places beyond Panama where people have the opportunity to view the vividly colored yet critically endangered harlequin toad—a sight cherished both by scientists and aficionados.
The European Museum of the Year Award was conferred by Amina Krvavac, who chairs the EMYA jury. This award highlighted institutions dedicated to unity and collaborative efforts during the past year. The Manchester Museum received recognition particularly for “improving access” and establishing “additional areas aimed at strengthening community ties and encouraging cultural exchange,” as stated in an official announcement from the organizers.
The museum received special recognition for how it addressed its colonial legacy. Similar to institutions globally, particularly those in the UK, which have been examining their acquisition and presentation methods regarding archaeological artifacts, the Manchester Museum—also stemming from an imperial background—has, as noted by the Awards committee, “reevaluated its purpose.” This transformation involves “confronting and tackling its intricate history” through reshaping the function of its collections and public programs.
However, what do these modifications appear as in reality?
Firstly, the museum has prioritized showcasing the viewpoints of indigenous populations and enabling members of these communities to curate and narrate their own histories.
This applies to “Anindilyakwa Arts: Stories from our Country,” an ongoing exhibit that delves into the customs and heritage of the Anindilyakwa People, also known as Warnumamalya (the true inhabitants). These individuals are the traditional custodians of the Groote Archipelago located along Australia’s northern coastline.
This specific exhibition was created in collaboration with Anindilyakwa artists and Elders. Furthermore, in 2023, the Manchester Museum repatriated 174 cultural artifacts back to their homeland, showcasing the institution’s commitment to addressing past injustices.
A location offering additional benefits
The selection of the location for the awards was equally thoughtfully deliberated. The Sybir Memorial Museum claimed last year’s Council of Europe Museum award due to its significant efforts towards promoting human rights and democratic citizenship.
The museum delves into the experiences of Poles who were exiled to the Soviet Union during World War II and has been commended for its capability to make history come alive through various mediums such as workshops, events, media, publications, and innovative formats.
The Council of Europe Museum Prize for this year was awarded to Euskararen Etxea, the House of Basque Language.
Basque Language in Bilbao
In Spain, this venue, which the awards committee characterized as “an unparalleled cultural hub focused on the Basque language, its heritage, and narratives of endurance and identity connected to it,” received recognition for delving into “the profound sentiments, hurdles, and resistances linked to Basque culture.”
Although this museum centers on the history of the minority language predominantly spoken in Spain, it provides exhibitions in English, French, Spanish, along with Basque, thereby catering to a broader range of tourists.
The museum acknowledged for its strong community involvement is the Alvor Lifeguard Interpretive Center (CISA) located in Portimão, Portugal. Similar to the Manchester Museum, CISA prioritizes exhibits centered around people, where narratives are shared directly by those involved. The center concentrates on maintaining traditional artisanal fishing methods and labor customs, benefiting greatly from input provided by local inhabitants.
The Portimão Museum Award for Welcome, Inclusion, and Belonging, recognizing a “welcoming environment of inclusivity,” was awarded to the
Istanbul’s Museum of Modern Art
It received recognition for effectively engaging with younger audiences. According to the awards committee, the museum averages around 500 young visitors daily.
MUZOO, a modern Swiss venue, received recognition for its commitment to environmental sustainability. This place encourages local residents to engage in animal care as part of an effort to spark discussions around biodiversity. By integrating exhibitions with engaging activities, MUZOO not only fosters environmental dialogues but also ensures these interactions have a long-lasting impact on visitors even after they depart.
Nini Sanadiradze, who previously served as the General Director of The Union of Tbilisi Museums, received individual recognition for her “bold and occasionally contentious approaches to museum work, which question and redefine conventional views on the duties and roles of museums within society.”
She received an honors medal from the ex-Georgian President as well.
Salome Zourabichvili
for her “outstanding commitment to protecting and preserving Georgia’s cultural and historical legacy.”
The awards ceremony for next year will take place at Euskararen Etxea in Bilbao.
