A POPULAR Victorian-era attraction used to spy on tourists will stay closed for weeks while essential maintenance work is carried out.
The “hidden gem” is a beloved tourist spot that offers 360 degree views of the area.
The Great Union Camera Obscura will stay temporarily closed for several more weeks while a number of repairs are carried out.
The tourist attraction, located on the Isle of Man, first shut down on June 14, with a notice posted online by volunteers.
The notice read: “Please note that the Camera Obscura is currently closed while essential work is being carried out.
“The closure may last for several weeks, but we’ll keep you updated and let everyone know as soon as we’re able to reopen.”
Now, it has been revealed that the site will need to remain closed for longer as the latest condition survey unearthed a series of repairs that would need to be carried out.
Department of Education, Sport and Culture Minister Daphne Caine confirmed the repairs when responding to a written question about the work.
She said: “Since the last condition survey, issues have been found that require further repairs and maintenance, and the Department of Infrastructure is currently engaging with a contractor to address these issues.
“At the present time, these include the removal and replacement of wooden joists and decking, and the removal and replacement of corroded steelwork, fastenings and bolts located underneath the decking.”
The latest condition survey occurred in March 2025, and also identified areas of the sailcloth roof edging that had begun to fail and nails used to fix timber panels that were showing signs of decay.
According to Mrs Caine, the Camera Obscura underwent extensive repairs in 2017-18.
The Great Union Camera Obscura was first built in 1892, offering visitors a 360 degree view of the surrounding area, including the Douglas harbour and lighthouse.
According to the Isle of Man tourist website, the optical effect of the camera works through a series of mirrors and lenses located around the roof line above a darkened room with views of the surrounding area then projected onto a circular table.
The “unique” Camera Obscura boasts eleven lenses to create its views, whereas most only have one.
The “hidden gem” tourist attraction offers visitors a look into how Victorians first saw moving pictures and according to reviews is “well worth visiting to see how things were”.
Visitors have praised the “knowledgeable volunteers” at the attraction and the “stunning” views.
“You have to go to understand it,” wrote one visitor. “Like watching an old movie with movement.”
“People watching at its best,” read another.