Modern Two

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Hidden within Edinburgh’s elegant landscape, Modern Two stands as a testament to transformation. Originally the Dean Orphan Hospital, this neoclassical structure opened its doors to parentless children in 1833. Designed by Thomas Hamilton, the building, constructed with locally sourced Craigleith stone, showcases an English Baroque style blended with classical details. Notice the distinctive towers that rise above the staircases. These architectural features cleverly conceal chimneys while adding to Edinburgh’s western skyline. The clock above the entrance has a unique story. It was salvaged from the original Orphan Hospital, which, in turn, acquired it from the Netherbow Port on the High Street, demolished in 1764. Modern Two is more than just a gallery; it’s a journey through time and art. Inside, discover the Paolozzi Gift, a remarkable collection donated by Sir Eduardo Paolozzi in 1994. Explore the world of Dada and Surrealist art, largely thanks to Gabrielle Keiller’s generous contribution. Venture outside and you’ll find yourself in a vibrant sculpture garden. Admire works like William Turnbull’s “Gate” and George Rickey’s kinetic sculpture, “Two Lines up Excentric VI”. Modern Two shares Belford Road with its twin, Modern One, together forming the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. The buildings’ current names, adopted in 2011, reflect their shared mission. This dynamic duo offers a rich tapestry of modern and contemporary art. Modern Two’s conversion, spearheaded by architect Terry Farrell, began a new chapter in its history in 1999. The Dean Orphanage, once a haven for children, now shelters masterpieces and sparks creativity.

After discovering the story of Modern Two in Edinburgh, you may wonder how to explore even more of what this vibrant destination has to offer. Explory makes it simple: our digital guide gives you instant access to the city’s culture, history, and unique atmosphere. With our interactive city guide, you can uncover the background of Edinburgh while following engaging routes designed for curious travelers. Whether you’re on a short trip or staying longer, Explory transforms your visit into a personalized city tour that connects stories with places in an intuitive way.Explory is more than just an ordinary travel tool – it is your companion for deeper exploration of Edinburgh. Each guide combines expert storytelling with easy navigation, allowing you to discover well-known highlights and hidden gems that most visitors overlook. With the city guide, you can plan your route across landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural spots, all enriched by immersive audio storytelling. Our audio guide brings the atmosphere of Edinburgh directly to your ears, making each step of your journey more meaningful.Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, history, or everyday culture, Explory helps you connect with the spirit of Edinburgh. The carefully curated guide highlights what makes this city special, while the interactive city tour lets you explore on your own terms. Thanks to our focus on exploration and unique hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a travel experience that goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. Explory turns every visit into a memorable adventure where stories and places come alive.Download the Explory App now to continue your journey beyond Edinburgh. Inside the app, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories waiting for you. Whether you are searching for a smart audio guide, planning your next city tour, or simply looking for inspiration through a rich guide, Explory is your key to exploring the world differently. Start today and unlock the full potential of Edinburgh with Explory – your ultimate travel companion.

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