Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, George Town

Established during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Penang's state-run museum is housed within a Colonial-style building that once served as the premises for the Penang Free School, the first English language public school in the East, dating back to the 1810s. The museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the island's rich history, customs, and traditions, showcasing a diverse array of quality exhibits (including mock-ups of traditional houses) representing its various ethnic groups.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the island's cultural tapestry through an extensive collection of artifacts, including photographs, videos, documents, costumes, furniture, porcelains, and other nicely labeled displays. The museum's upper floor hosts the history gallery, which offers a glimpse into the past with early 19th-century watercolors by Captain Robert Smith, an engineer with the East India Company, and prints depicting landscapes of old Penang – a captivating journey through time.

Tip:
Prior to your visit, please verify if the museum is open to the public.