LWL-Museum für Archäologie und Kultur

The LWL-Museum für Archäologie und Kultur, located in Herne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a treasure trove of human history, focusing on the rich archaeological heritage of Westphalia. This museum, part of the Landschaftsverband Westfalen-Lippe (LWL), offers an immersive journey through 250,000 years of human history, from the Ice Age to modern times. With its innovative architecture and engaging exhibitions, it provides a unique experience for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

The History of the Museum

The museum's origins date back to 1836 when the first collection of archaeological finds from Westphalia was presented in Münster by the Verein für Geschichte und Altertumskunde Westfalens. In 1908, these collections were integrated into the newly opened Provinzialmuseum. The archaeological department gained its own space in 1930 and became an independent entity in 1934 as the Landesmuseum für Vor- und Frühgeschichte.

Despite the devastation caused by bombings in 1943 and 1945, the museum was rebuilt between 1963 and 1970. Renamed the Westfälisches Museum für Archäologie in 1980, it was relocated to Herne following a decision by the Landschaftsversammlung Westfalen-Lippe in 1991. The new building in Herne was inaugurated on March 28, 2003. In 2007, it was renamed the LWL-Museum für Archäologie, and in early 2023, it adopted its current name, the LWL-Museum für Archäologie und Kultur.

The Architectural Marvel

The museum's architecture is a masterpiece in itself. Designed by the architects von Busse Klapp Brüning, the building primarily lies underground, with only the cubic entrance building and light halls over the two largest exhibition rooms emerging above ground. This innovative design earned the museum the 'Auszeichnung guter Bauten 2003' from the Bund Deutscher Architekten in NRW and the North Rhine-Westphalia Architecture Prize in 2004. The building is fully accessible, featuring exhibition spaces, conference rooms on the ground floor, and a cinema in the basement.

Permanent and Special Exhibitions

The permanent exhibition at the LWL-Museum für Archäologie und Kultur takes visitors on a chronological journey through 250,000 years of history in Westphalia. The presentation is modeled after an archaeological excavation site, with exhibits displayed in their original context. Visitors can explore various types of sites, such as graves, wells, and building remains, through reconstructions, images, films, and soundscapes. This immersive experience not only showcases artifacts and their histories but also highlights the meticulous work of archaeologists.

In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum hosts a variety of special exhibitions. Past exhibitions have covered a wide range of topics, from the impact of climate on human life to the myths and cults surrounding human skulls. Recent exhibitions include 'Stonehenge – Von Menschen und Landschaften' and 'Modern Times – Archäologische Funde der Moderne und ihre Geschichten,' which runs until August 2024. These exhibitions offer fresh insights and fascinating discoveries from the field of archaeology.

The Research Laboratory

The museum's research laboratory is a standout feature, allowing visitors to delve into the world of archaeological research. Here, they can follow the processes used by archaeologists to investigate the past, with reconstructions modeled after criminal cases. Techniques such as soil analysis, facial reconstruction, DNA analysis, stratigraphic excavation, age determination, and material analysis are demonstrated, providing a hands-on experience of the scientific methods used in archaeology.

The Excavation Camp

Opened on August 23, 2013, the excavation camp on the museum's grounds offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience archaeological excavation firsthand. This 200-square-meter area is covered by a tent to protect it from the elements and features a terraced layout with various excavation levels, from the Early Modern period to the Stone Age. Visitors can participate in activities such as careful excavation, precise documentation, and the identification and dating of finds. The camp is accessible to all, thanks to a ramp leading into the excavation area.

Conclusion

The LWL-Museum für Archäologie und Kultur is more than just a museum; it is a gateway to understanding the long and complex history of human life in Westphalia. With its innovative exhibitions, hands-on research opportunities, and engaging special exhibitions, it offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff, a student, or simply curious about the past, this museum provides a fascinating journey through time, making it a must-visit destination in Herne.