About the Museum

The Royal BC Museum, which includes the provincial archives and IMAX® Victoria, is one of the oldest continually operating museums in Canada. A cultural centre of learning and research, it strives to broaden our understanding of British Columbia through collections, exhibits, outreach and community engagement. Through community collaboration, the museum works to share the stories of BC and provides a dynamic space for discussion and reflection.

The  Royal BC Museum and IMAX® Victoria are located in Victoria, BC, on the traditional territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən (Place to Smoke Herring People), known today as the Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations. We acknowledge these nations as the traditional keepers of these lands and waters. It is with gratitude we learn to live, work and walk respectfully on their lands today.

The RBCM cares for more than 7 million objects, belongings, specimens, and millions of significant government documents and records; substantial photographic, audio and video collections; artworks; and an extensive library of publications. IMAX® Victoria delivers educational and entertaining experiences that accompany the learning journey the museum offers.

The museum is also building PARC Campus—the provincial archives, research and collections building in Colwood, BC. Majority of the province’s collections and archives will move to the new building, except for the Indigenous collection which will remain at the downtown site where repatriation and community consultation will continue to guide the future of the collections. During this complex process of reimagination, not only of the future of the museum’s physical presence and facilities but also of its responsibilities to the public, our team is undergoing organizational changes as well. As we go through this transformational phase, our organization strives to adhere to a standard of conduct that prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, and continues to value curiosity and innovation.