Set in a stunning gothic Romanesque-style castle in Bryn Athyn, Glencairn Museum easily transforms into an international Christmas display each year thanks to the many religious pieces that it is home to, writes Monica Cryan for PHL 17.

The castle has been the residence of Raymon Pitcairn and his family for four decades.

The collector has amassed around 8,000 pieces of artwork, most of which are religious in nature. The collection includes pieces from cultures such as the Roman Empire and medieval Europe.

The artifacts within its beautifully arched halls just in themselves create the perfect celebratory atmosphere for this time of year.

The Great Hall and Upper Hall include works of art that illustrate the Christmas story, from medieval to modern, “showing how different cultures lend their own raw materials and their own sensibilities to each depiction,” according to the museum’s staff.

“So it’s really trying to portray what is universal about the story of Jesus’ birth.”

There is also a large, three-part Nativity scene that has been the front and center display at the museum every year, dating all the way back to 1939. Read more about Glencairn Museum at PHL 17 by clicking here.

Glencairn Museum is committed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, and in accordance with new restrictions recently announced by the state, Glencairn Museum will be closed for in-person tours and events until Monday, January 4, 2021.

Visitors can enjoy the online World Nativities exhibition and Advent calendar, “Christmas in the Castle” online holiday tour, Glencairn Christmas Sing online concert, and Glencairn Christmas at Home homeschool activities here.