The Surgeons´ Hall Museums in Edinburgh are a unique medical history museum that tells the fascinating story of surgery. The museum is housed in an iconic William Playfair building that belongs to the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.The origins of the collection date back to 1699, when “natural and artificial curiosities” were publicly collected. In 1832, the Playfair building was then opened to house the Barclay and Bell collections. Originally conceived as a medical teaching resource, the Surgeons´ Hall Museums are now open to the public.The museum houses one of the largest and most historically significant pathology collections in the UK. Highlights include the Wohl Pathology Museum with its rare specimens and the History of Surgery Museum, which displays a book made from the skin of the notorious serial killer William Burke.In addition, the museum has a collection of historical dental instruments and artworks. The offering is complemented by an extensive event program with lectures, guided tours, and workshops.With its unique collection of medical collections and its vivid presentation, the Surgeons´ Hall Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in medical history and science who visits Edinburgh.
