How were paintings kept safe in the Second World War? | National Gallery

As part of our 'National Treasures' programme, the National Library of Wales welcomes back Canaletto’s masterpiece 'The Stonemason’s Yard', having taken refuge there over 80 years ago.

In late August 1939, the National Gallery found itself at the centre of a city expecting widespread bombing during the Second World War. The National Gallery made the decision to remove all of its paintings from the premises during the 10 days that preceded the declaration of war on 3 September 1939. But where should they go?

A large, secure location was required to house the collection. A disused slate mine near Blaenau Ffestiniog at Manod in Wales fitted the bill perfectly. The works were transported along the winding roads and little bridges, into North Wales. Canaletto's 'The Stonemason's Yard' was one of the paintings stored in Manod.

'The Stonemason's Yard' is on loan to The National Library of Wales in 2024. To celebrate our Bicentenary, 12 paintings from the collection are being lent to 12 venues across the UK. See various locations and visit: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/ex...

🎨 Find out more about 'The Stonemason's Yard': https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/pa...

🖌️ Find out more about Canaletto: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/ar...

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The National Gallery houses the national collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The museum is free of charge and open 361 days per year, daily between 10am - 6pm and on Fridays between 10am - 9pm.

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