Camera Obscura & World of Illusions celebrates our 170th birthday!
Since our establishment in 1853, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions has been a haven for those seeking bewildering and awe-inspiring experiences. Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, our attraction has become an iconic landmark in the city, welcoming visitors from far and wide.
This journey began with the mesmerizing Camera Obscura itself, a marvel of Victorian engineering that was unbelievable to behold back in 1853. Our founder Maria Theresa Short brought it to Castlehill and added 2 floors to our historic building, meaning it could capture live, panoramic views of the bustling city below. Today, our demonstrations transport visitors back in time to an era when such optical wonders were a novelty. In the 5 floors below our historic Camera Obscura, our World of Illusions fosters creativity and curiosity in visitors of all ages. The engaging exhibits and hands-on activities encourage exploration and experimentation, igniting the imaginations of young and old alike. Whether it's unraveling the mysteries of holograms or navigating through a Mirror Maze, our attraction celebrates the joy of discovery.
As Camera Obscura & World of Illusions celebrates 170 years of wonder, it remains as captivating as ever. By embracing technology advancements, our attraction continues to evolve while staying true to its core principles of magic, fun, and wonder. Our dedicated team behind the scenes ensures that every visitor's experience is nothing short of enchanting, always striving to ignite a sense of wonder and leave lasting memories.
Camera Obscura stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of optical illusions and the enduring power of human curiosity. For 170 years our attraction has mesmerized generations, allowing them to witness the world through different lenses and challenge their perceptions of reality. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, let us embrace the wonders that Camera Obscura & World of Illusions has to offer, inspiring us to question, explore, and discover the magic that lies both within and beyond our senses.