Müritzeum

In the heart of the picturesque Mecklenburg Lake District lies a gem that beckons nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious minds alike – the Müritzeum in Waren (Müritz). This unique museum is not just a repository of knowledge but an immersive experience that brings the natural world and regional history to life in captivating ways.

The Concept of the Müritzeum

The Müritzeum, established in 2007, is a modern marvel that seamlessly blends the old with the new. It evolved from the Müritz-Museum, which had roots dating back to the 19th century, into a state-of-the-art facility that houses extensive natural history collections, interactive exhibits, and the largest freshwater aquarium in Germany dedicated to native fish species. The museum's mission is to provide an engaging, educational experience that highlights the natural and cultural history of the Mecklenburg Lake District and the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

The Müritzeum's design is itself a testament to innovation. The main building, known as the House of 1000 Lakes, was designed by the Swedish architectural firm Wingårdh Arkitektkontor. Its striking façade, clad in charred larch wood, not only makes a bold architectural statement but also pays homage to the region's natural resources. Inside, the museum spans approximately 2,300 square meters of exhibition space, offering a plethora of exhibits that cater to all ages and interests.

Exploring the Aquariums

One of the Müritzeum's star attractions is its impressive aquarium landscape. Spread across an entire floor, the aquarium houses 26 tanks with a total capacity of around 200,000 liters. Visitors can marvel at approximately 50 species of fish, as well as various crustaceans and other aquatic creatures. The centerpiece of this aquatic wonderland is the 105,000-liter deep tank, home to schools of large and small whitefish, which are native to the region's lakes.

The aquarium also features a recreated river habitat, showcasing typical fish species found in local rivers and streams. Among these are sturgeons, a species that has faced significant threats but is now part of a conservation and breeding program aimed at reintroducing them to their native waters. The Müritzeum proudly displays both the American Atlantic sturgeon and the European Atlantic sturgeon, alongside three other sturgeon species.

Interactive Exhibits and Natural History

Beyond the aquariums, the Müritzeum offers a wealth of interactive exhibits that delve into the region's natural history. The museum's permanent exhibition, housed in the historic House of Collections, tells the story of the museum's origins and showcases its extensive collections. With over 285,000 specimens, the natural history collections provide a comprehensive overview of the flora, fauna, and geology of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

Visitors can engage with geological objects, marvel at meticulously preserved animal specimens, and listen to recordings of various animal sounds. One of the highlights is a life-sized replica of a 1,000-year-old oak tree trunk from the Ivenacker Oaks, offering a tangible connection to the region's ancient natural heritage.

The Museum Garden and Herrensee

The Müritzeum's experience extends beyond its walls into the beautiful museum garden, which spans two hectares around the Herrensee. This tranquil oasis features ancient trees, including a 1,000-year-old oak, and a variety of free-roaming wildlife. The garden also houses geological and historical artifacts, a display hive with honeybees, and exhibits related to beekeeping.

One of the garden's unique features is that it can be visited at night, offering a different perspective on the natural world. Strolling through the garden under the starlit sky, with the sounds of nocturnal creatures in the background, is an unforgettable experience that adds a magical touch to the Müritzeum visit.

A Journey Through History

The Müritzeum's roots can be traced back to 1866 when Hermann von Maltzan founded the Maltzaneum, the first public natural history museum in the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Over the years, the museum's collections grew, thanks to the contributions of local collectors and naturalists. Despite challenges, including the destruction of many collections during World War II, the museum persevered, evolving into the Müritz-Museum in 1957 and eventually into the modern Müritzeum we see today.

Throughout its history, the museum has been a beacon of education and conservation, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world and the region's cultural heritage. The Müritzeum continues this legacy, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and history in meaningful ways.

Plan Your Visit

A visit to the Müritzeum is a journey of discovery that promises to leave you inspired and enriched. Whether you're exploring the mesmerizing aquariums, engaging with interactive exhibits, or enjoying the serene beauty of the museum garden, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The Müritzeum is more than just a museum; it's a gateway to understanding and appreciating the natural and cultural treasures of the Mecklenburg Lake District.

So, if you find yourself in Waren (Müritz), make sure to set aside time to explore this remarkable institution. The Müritzeum is not just a place to visit; it's an experience that will stay with you long after you've left its doors.