Large museums, such as the Met or the Hermitage, hold impressive collections that can feel curated for both everyone and no one at all. Their galleries tell stories of a "universal" culture, yet are often guided by state agendas and global prestige.
On the other hand, small museums almost feel kind of confessional, holding the deep obsessions of a single person, town, or community. They are sometimes the homes of a local artist, or the remnants of a vanished industry, or simply a strange collection that someone loved too much to let go of. I have always loved how small museums are filled with stories that don't necessarily need to be grand in order to be meaningful.
On a more practical level, I also find small museums far more peaceful to visit. Long queues are replaced by a friendly chat with the lone receptionist, and instead of being herded from masterpiece to masterpiece, you get to wander at your own pace (with a squeaky floorboard for company). Sometimes, there's maybe a sleepy cat by the hand-painted sign pointing to the exit :)
Below is an ever-updating list of my favorite small museums around the world. Please email me with recommendations!
