An Edinburgh tourist attraction is celebrating International Women’s Day with an inventive tribute to its founder.
The Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is offering free entry to anyone named Maria on Sunday, March 8, in honour of Maria Theresa Short, the Scottish entrepreneur who established the attraction.
Ms Short first opened an observatory on Calton Hill in 1835 before relocating to Castlehill two decades later, where she re-established the attraction as a public observatory and museum of scientific curiosities.
This eventually became the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions.
Booking online in advance using the code Maria100 is also available .The offer is valid on adult tickets only, one ticket per transaction. (Image: Camera Obscura)
Andrew Johnson, general manager at Camera Obscura, said: “Maria Theresa Short was a remarkable woman who didn’t shy away from a challenge.
“At a time when it wasn’t easy for women to run businesses, Maria created something bold and completely unique to Edinburgh.
“International Women’s Day feels like the perfect time to celebrate her everlasting legacy.
“We can’t think of a more fitting tribute than welcoming fellow Marias to Camera Obscura to enjoy the magic Maria Short first created almost two centuries ago.”
Visitors named Maria can claim free admission by presenting photographic identification at the admissions desk.
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Camera Obscura & World of Illusions was awarded a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for 2025 and currently holds a five-star ASVA Quality Grading.
In 2025, the attraction also received the Inclusion Award at the Central and East Scotland regional final of the Scottish Thistle Awards, a recognition of its commitment to accessibility and inclusive tourism.
Its inclusion initiatives include free entry for carers, sensory backpacks, a quiet space, and a virtual tour, supported by a detailed accessibility guide.