Culture
A visit to the Isle of Man is a voyage of discovery; an opportunity to learn a little about the fascinating past and present of our Island. All over the Island you'll find intriguing evidence of the Island's Culture and history, from Celtic crosses and ancient Viking burial grounds to medieval castles. Our thriving modern day culture is also much in evidence with a year round programme of entertainment, theatre, film, arts, music and sport.
Ancient Monuments
Ancient monuments ranging from Neolithic tombs to Viking boat burials are common sights in the Isle of Man. Pictured left is a stunning tomb at Cashtal yn Ard in the north of the Island. Some of these historic sites occupy dramatic locations on high land or on cliffside lookouts. Cultural influences in the Island originate from the indigenous Celts (who were converted to Christianity around 500 AD) and the Vikings who arrived in the Island around 800 AD. The resultant fusion of cultures is still evident in the archaeology, language, place-names and Parliamentary traditions of the Island.
Broadway Cinema The Broadway Cinema in the Villa Marina incorporates the latest cutting edge sound and projection equipment, which means you can enjoy the big-screen movie experience to the full. The cinema presents an entertaining mix of family viewing and the latest blockbusters, with matinees for children each weekend and during school holidays as well as nightly movies. The 154-seater cinema doubles as a first-class lecture theatre and is fitted with an in-built data projector. Presenters have full control of audio and visual equipment at their fingertips from the stage.
Food & Farming Manx farmers manage 79% of the Island's landscape and are one of the main reasons why the Manx countryside is so beautiful. Our farmers produce unique, quality foods full of the rich flavours of our countryside. You can buy Manx produce in supermarkets or from our excellent farmers' markets now cropping up around the Isle of Man. A flavoursome 3 Course Manx menu might include: Manx Queenies with Peel Smoked Bacon, Loaghtan Steak braised with Blackberries and Wild Herbs and Summer Fruits and Double Cream Mousse. You can also shop on-line when you get back home.
Laxey Woollen Mills
The Laxey Woollen Mills are world-famous for their Manx Tartan cloth and rugs. Founded by John Ruskin in 1881, the woollen mills still use traditional looms to manufacture. See genuine Manx tweed being woven on double-width and power looms.
Old House of Keys
The history of the Old House of Keys building is one chapter in the long, and often turbulent, history of Manx politics which stretches back to the 9th and 10th centuries when the Viking Kings ruled the Isle of Man. After it ceased to be used by the Members of the Keys, the Old House of Keys building led a chequered life. Manx National Heritage has restored the Old House of Keys to provide visitors with an insight into the political life and times of the Island. We hope that you enjoy this chapter of 'The Story of Mann' and will discover the other sites of political interest, past and present, around the Island.
