Naturkundemuseum Görlitz

In the picturesque town of Görlitz, nestled in the heart of Saxony, Germany, lies a gem of natural history and scientific exploration: the Naturkundemuseum Görlitz, also known as the Senckenberg Museum für Naturkunde Görlitz. This esteemed institution has captivated the curiosity of visitors for centuries, offering a unique blend of zoology, botany, and geology that provides an in-depth look into the natural world.

A Glimpse into History

The roots of the Naturkundemuseum Görlitz date back to 1811 when the Ornithological Society of Görlitz was established, spearheaded by the textile merchant Johann Gottlieb Kretzschmar and the actuary Giese. This society evolved into the Natural Science Society of Görlitz in 1823, which laid the foundation for what would become the museum. By 1860, the museum found its home at Marienplatz, thanks to the efforts of Dr. W. J. Kleefeld and Georg von Möllendorff. The building was officially opened by Möllendorff on October 26, 1860, marking the beginning of an era dedicated to the preservation and study of natural history.

Collections That Tell a Story

The museum's collections began modestly with 181 specimens of native land and water birds, 50 exotic birds, and a collection of nests and eggs in 1819. Over the years, the collection expanded significantly, including 150 species of North American birds in 1827 and an impressive array of African plants in 1858. By 1914, the museum had acquired a rare gorilla from Cameroon and an extensive egg collection from Bruno Hecker. Today, the museum boasts approximately 6.5 million specimens, including insects, mites, millipedes, snails, mollusks, vertebrates, plants, fungi, minerals, rocks, and fossils. These collections serve as a vital resource for scientific research conducted by the museum's team of over 40 researchers.

Permanent Exhibitions

Spread across 1,200 square meters of exhibition space, the permanent displays at the Naturkundemuseum Görlitz offer an immersive experience into the natural world. The dioramas, meticulously crafted to replicate the habitats of Upper Lusatia, showcase the region's flora and fauna, including wolves and sea eagles. The geology exhibition delves into the region's dynamic history, from volcanic activity and ancient marine environments to coal forests and Ice Age relics like mammoth and aurochs fossils.

A standout feature of the museum is the 30-fold magnified soil column exhibit, which reveals the intricate world of soil-dwelling organisms, highlighting the importance of soil biology. The rainforest and savanna exhibitions introduce visitors to a diverse range of species, from the peculiar Aye-aye and majestic Harpy eagle to the formidable gorilla and elusive tiger.

The vivarium, spanning 100 square meters, houses 70 live animal species from rainforests and local habitats in 12 intricately designed landscape tanks. Regular feeding demonstrations offer a closer look at rare species such as the Black freshwater stingray from Brazil, Malagasy tomato frogs, and the Senegal bichir, a living fossil. Native species like the grass snake and Eurasian harvest mouse also feature prominently.

Interactive and Educational Experiences

The Naturkundemuseum Görlitz is not just about static displays; it offers interactive and multimedia learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. Audio guides in German, English, and Polish are available at no extra cost, ensuring accessibility for an international audience. The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, and it provides a range of educational programs, including guided tours, children's events, and birthday parties, making it a family-friendly destination.

Special Exhibitions

The museum's dynamic program includes two special exhibitions each year, featuring diverse themes that have captivated audiences. Past exhibitions have explored topics such as mechanical animals, botanical art, and the fascinating world of T. rex and other prehistoric creatures. The exhibition Everything is... About the Importance of Feces for Ecology, Economy, and Research delved into the often-overlooked role of excrement in various ecosystems. These special exhibitions ensure that there is always something new and exciting to discover at the Naturkundemuseum Görlitz.

Traveling Exhibitions

In addition to its in-house exhibitions, the museum has developed a dozen international traveling exhibitions, showcasing its research on a global stage. Notable traveling exhibitions include The Thin Skin of the Earth – Our Soils, which highlights the biodiversity and ecological significance of soil, and Via Regia – Road of Species, which examines the role of various animal and plant species along the historic trade route.

The Naturkundemuseum Görlitz is more than just a museum; it is a hub of scientific inquiry, education, and conservation. Its rich history, extensive collections, and engaging exhibitions make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural world. Whether you're a budding scientist, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for an educational outing, the Naturkundemuseum Görlitz offers a fascinating journey through the wonders of nature.