Celebrate International Women's Day With Us
Is Your Name Maria? If It Is, You Get FREE Entry!
Maria first opened an observatory on Calton Hill, later adding a camera obscura and the attraction opened to the public in 1835 with mixed reviews. She later purchased a building on Castlehill and moved her attraction there in 1853, reopening it as a public observatory and museum of scientific curiosities, this went on to become Camera Obscura & World of Illusions as it exists today.
Despite the trials and tribulations Maria faced along the way, she would no doubt be delighted to see that the five-floor interactive attraction would go on to achieve five-star success from ASVA Quality Scheme earlier this year.
Andrew Johnson, General Manager at Camera Obscura said; “Maria Theresa Short was a remarkable woman who didn’t shy away from a challenge. At a time when it wasn’t easy for women to run businesses, Maria created something bold and completely unique to Edinburgh. International Women’s Day feels like the perfect time to celebrate her everlasting legacy.
“We can’t think of a more fitting tribute than welcoming fellow Maria’s to Camera Obscura to enjoy the magic Maria Short first created almost two centuries ago.”
Marias keen to take a visit simply need to present a valid form of photographic ID at the admissions desk to confirm their name. They can also book online in advance using the code ‘Maria100’. Valid on adult tickets only, one ticket per transaction.