Museums in Abertillery

Wales, United Kingdom

Abertillery, a picturesque town in the south of Wales, offers visitors a rich selection of museums reflecting the diverse history and culture of the region.

Abertillery & District Museum

This museum showcases an impressive collection of artifacts ranging from prehistoric to modern times. Notable highlights include:

Prehistoric finds: A Bronze Age axe head from the settlement of Llanerch Padarn, providing insight into the early settlements of the region.

Industrial exhibits: Objects documenting the history of coal and iron industries, including a pistol possibly used by the Chartists.

Cultural artifacts: A baseball cap belonging to Arthur Scargill, emphasizing the importance of the miners' movement.

The museum is located on the ground floor of the Metropole Theatre on Market Street and is open from Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 1pm.

Six Bells Mining Memorial

This impressive memorial commemorates the tragic explosion in 1960, which claimed the lives of 45 miners. The 20-meter-high statue "Guardian" by Sebastien Boyesen overlooks the former site of the Six Bells Colliery, symbolizing the strength and resilience of mining communities.

Overall, the museums in Abertillery provide a deep insight into the region's history, from prehistoric times through the industrial revolution to the challenges and legacy of mining communities.