National Science Museum at Maynooth

The National Science Museum at Maynooth houses Ireland's largest collection of scientific instruments, including historic coils, magnets, and telegraph devices. The display also features religious and ecclesiastical pieces that the building has held since its establishment.

The museum was established in 1934 as a Museum of Ecclesiology and later broadened its focus to include science, influenced by the research tradition of a prominent local scholar. This expansion shaped the institution's identity today.

The museum connects two distinct collection areas: scientific equipment linked to local research traditions and religious objects spanning three centuries of Irish heritage. Visitors can see how both fields are displayed side by side.

The museum can be visited by prior arrangement and is located within a university building. Visitors should contact in advance to confirm opening times and arrange access or guided tours.

The museum preserves the first induction coil created by a local scholar in 1836, capable of generating 600,000 volts. This pioneering device was transformative for the development of electrical engineering.

Location: Maynooth

Website: http://maynoothcollege.ie/national-museum-maynooth

GPS coordinates: 53.37863,-6.59808

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:00