City Museum Bautzen

Nestled in the heart of the historic town of Bautzen, the City Museum Bautzen, known locally as Museum Bautzen, stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Saxon region of Upper Lusatia. With its impressive collection of several hundred thousand objects, this museum is not only one of the largest but also one of the most significant in the area, offering visitors a captivating journey through time.

The History of City Museum Bautzen

The origins of the City Museum Bautzen date back to 1868 when Oskar Roesger, a visionary bookseller, spearheaded an initiative to preserve the region's cultural heritage. He proposed to the local council the creation of a space to showcase antiquities, effectively preventing the loss of local art treasures. Roesger generously donated his own extensive collection, leading to the establishment of the Alterthumsmuseum der Stadt Bautzen in 1869. Initially housed in a room of the old Bürgerschule, the museum quickly grew through the altruistic contributions of townspeople, reflecting the community's deep-rooted connection to their heritage.

Over the years, the museum's collection expanded significantly, thanks in part to notable benefactors like Emilie Henriette Therese aus dem Winckell and Friedrich Carl Gustav Stieber. Their contributions laid the foundation for the museum's renowned art gallery. The museum's growth necessitated several relocations, eventually finding a permanent home at its current location on Kornmarkt in 1912. This site was purpose-built, incorporating modern museum technology of the time, and designed as a harmonious blend of architecture and exhibition space.

Exploring the Collections

The City Museum Bautzen is organized into three main thematic areas: Region, City of Bautzen, and Art. Each section offers a unique glimpse into the past, from prehistoric times to the present day. The prehistoric and early history collection is particularly noteworthy, containing over 200,000 artifacts that span from the Paleolithic era to the early Middle Ages. These items are not only of local importance but also hold significant value on a broader scale.

The regional history collection provides insight into the daily lives of Upper Lusatia's villages during the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore a variety of household and utilitarian objects that paint a vivid picture of the area's cultural evolution. Additionally, the natural history collection features regional geological specimens and a selection of bird preparations and eggs, although parts of it have been transferred to other institutions over the years.

Art and City History

The museum's art collection is a treasure trove of approximately 17,000 objects, ranging from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works. This extensive collection includes paintings, sculptures, and graphic art, offering an artistic journey through centuries of creativity. The city history section complements this by chronicling Bautzen's development from medieval times to the modern era, with many historical paintings included in the narrative.

Architectural Marvel

The museum's architecture itself is a point of interest. The main building, completed in 1912, is an example of early 20th-century design, constructed with a steel-reinforced concrete structure. It was conceived as a total work of art, with a meticulously planned sequence of spaces from the basement to the third floor. The extension, built during the economic challenges of the 1930s, was designed by Dresden architect Otto Schubert and continues to serve multiple purposes, including hosting temporary exhibitions.

Visiting the City Museum Bautzen

A visit to the City Museum Bautzen is an immersive experience that caters to history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, ensuring there is always something new to discover. Its strategic location in the heart of Bautzen makes it easily accessible, inviting visitors to explore the surrounding historic town after their museum experience.

The City Museum Bautzen is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the rich history and artistic achievements of the region. Whether you are delving into the prehistoric past or admiring the brushstrokes of a Renaissance painting, this museum offers a window into the soul of Upper Lusatia. A visit here is not just a walk through history but a journey into the very essence of Bautzen and its enduring legacy.