Museums Reiss-Engelhorn

In the heart of Mannheim, the Museums Reiss-Engelhorn, known locally as Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen, stand as a beacon of cultural and historical exploration. This renowned museum complex is not just a single entity but a collective of multiple museums, cultural institutes, and research facilities. The Museums Reiss-Engelhorn offer an immersive experience that spans various epochs and continents, making it a treasure trove for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and curious minds alike.

The Origins of Museums Reiss-Engelhorn

The inception of the Museums Reiss-Engelhorn can be traced back to the early 20th century. It was the vision of Carl Reiß, a Mannheim entrepreneur, who, along with his sister Anna Reiß, bequeathed their entire fortune to the city of Mannheim in 1913. Their wish was to establish a museum that would bear their name. However, it wasn't until after World War II and the reconstruction of the Mannheim Zeughaus in 1957 that the Reiß-Museum came into existence. Fast forward to 2001, the museum received a significant financial boost from the Curt-Engelhorn Foundation, established by industrialist Curt Engelhorn and his wife Heidemarie. This generous endowment led to the renaming of the museum complex to Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen.

Exploring the Museum Complex

The Museums Reiss-Engelhorn encompass several distinct museums, each offering a unique glimpse into different facets of human history and culture. The Museum Zeughaus, located in a striking early classical building, is a must-visit. Here, visitors can marvel at the Glanz der Antike exhibition, which showcases artifacts from ancient Greece, Etruria, and Rome. The second floor hosts the Belle Époque - Glanz und Taumel einer Epoche exhibit, transporting visitors to the opulent and tumultuous era of the Belle Époque. Art lovers will find solace in the Kosmos Kunst exhibition on the third floor, featuring paintings, furniture, garments, and porcelain from the 17th to the early 20th century.

Museum Weltkulturen

Just a stone's throw away from the Museum Zeughaus is the Museum Weltkulturen, housed in a modern building constructed in 1988. This museum is an archaeological and ethnological haven. The second floor is dedicated to Ägypten - Land der Unsterblichkeit, an exhibition that delves into the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt. The first floor features the Versunkene Welten. Archäologie an Rhein und Neckar exhibit, which explores the archaeological wonders discovered along the Rhine and Neckar rivers. The ground floor is reserved for rotating special exhibitions, ensuring that there is always something new to discover.

Music and Art at Museum Bassermannhaus

The Museum Bassermannhaus for Music and Art is another gem within the Museums Reiss-Engelhorn. This museum celebrates the intersection of music, art, and world cultures. The MusikWelten exhibition is a highlight, showcasing a diverse collection of musical instruments from Europe and beyond. The museum also hosts various art exhibitions, making it a dynamic space for cultural exchange and artistic expression.

Schiller's Legacy at Museum Schillerhaus

For literature aficionados, the Museum Schillerhaus is a pilgrimage site. This museum offers a multimedia experience documenting the life and works of Friedrich Schiller, one of Germany's most celebrated poets and playwrights. Schiller lived in Mannheim from July 1783 to April 1785, and the museum provides a fascinating insight into his time in the city. His last known residence, the Hölzelschen Haus, no longer exists, but the museum ensures that his legacy lives on.

Photography at Forum Internationale Photographie

The Forum Internationale Photographie, located within the Museum Zeughaus, is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. It houses an impressive collection of works by renowned photographer Robert Häusser, as well as a selection of photographs from the esteemed Helmut Gernsheim collection. The museum also features the Reiß siblings' photo collection, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of photography.

Scientific Exploration at Curt-Engelhorn-Zentrum Archäometrie

The Curt-Engelhorn-Zentrum Archäometrie is a cutting-edge research facility dedicated to archaeometry. This specialized laboratory, established in 2006, conducts material analyses and dating methods such as C14 and luminescence. It collaborates closely with the Museums Reiss-Engelhorn, contributing to the scientific understanding of historical artifacts and cultural heritage.

Recent Additions and Controversies

In January 2023, the Peter & Traudl Engelhornhaus opened its doors, adding another layer to the museum complex. This new building, funded by a generous donation from Traudl Engelhorn-Vechiatto, showcases exhibitions on photography and glass art. Despite its many accolades, the Museums Reiss-Engelhorn have not been without controversy. There have been calls to rename the museums due to questions surrounding the origins of the Engelhorn family's wealth. Additionally, the museums have been involved in legal battles over the use of photographic reproductions of their artworks.

With annual visitor numbers fluctuating between 200,000 and 300,000, the Museums Reiss-Engelhorn remain a vital cultural institution in Mannheim. They offer a rich tapestry of exhibitions and research opportunities, making them a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, and culture. Whether you're exploring ancient artifacts, marveling at musical instruments, or delving into the world of photography, the Museums Reiss-Engelhorn promise an unforgettable journey through time and across continents.