Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

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The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart, Tasmania, is Australia's largest private museum, opened in 2011 by art collector David Walsh. Renowned for its daring and provocative collection, MONA presents a unique blend of ancient antiquities and contemporary artworks, often centered on themes of sex, death, and human experience, challenging traditional museum norms.

The museum is built mostly underground within sandstone cliffs to preserve the surrounding heritage and features a labyrinthine design with no windows, dim lighting, and a maze-like layout encouraging exploration. 

Visitors access the museum by descending a spiral staircase and often arrive by ferry along the scenic River Derwent. Besides art, MONA incorporates a winery, restaurant, brewery, and hosts major music and arts festivals like MOFO and Dark Mofo, making it a cultural hub that has significantly boosted Tasmania's tourism profile.