Anniversary
Exhibition 200 Years Natural History Museum Basel

In 1821, Basel opened its very first state museum. Visitors eager for knowledge visited the Natural History Museum in the Falkensteinerhof building on Münsterplatz. The new Centre for Teaching, Research and Communication enthralled not just the public but scientists too because they had never before shared their knowledge with people outside of university and academic circles. The general public could now experience for themselves the benefits of natural-history research. The specialist libraries, collections and research equipment are no longer scattered throughout the city but have finally all been brought together under one roof.

This is an achievement worthy of celebration and we are delighted to be able to celebrate it with you. Travel with us through the centuries and meet the people who helped to shape the Natural History Museum Basel. What motivated their collecting and research? Why did they leave their life’s work to the museum and what were their expectations? The small exhibition bears witness to the great passion with which generations of collectors have taken care of nature’s treasures and preserved them for future generations. The Natural History Museum Basel’s rich past is based on their immense respect for life on our planet and their enormous dedication.

On the occasion of its 200-year anniversary, we acknowledged this priceless achievement with a journey through the ages.