The Great Union Camera Obscura

The Great Union Camera Obscura is one of only four remaining camera obscuras in the British Isles.

Unlike other structures, which were built for astronomical purposes, the Isle of Man’s camera obscura was built in the 1890s purely as an attraction for the flourishing Manx tourist industry.

The masterpiece works by using a series of mirrors and lenses which are located in a revolving turret above a darkened room.

Views of the surrounding area are then projected onto a circular table which has been separated by partitions to give 11 moving colour pictures of the 360 degree view which includes Douglas harbour, the lighthouse and horizon.

Adverse weather conditions may interfere with viewing or prevent the Great Union Camera Obscura from opening - so remember when the flag is flying the attraction is open!