Naturama Aargau
Aargau
Naturama Aargau is a renowned natural history museum located in Aarau, the capital of the Swiss canton of Aargau. Founded initially through the Aargauische Naturforschende Gesellschaft in 1811, the museum has evolved from private natural collections into a significant public institution housed in a neobaroque building designed by architect Hans Hächler in 1922. The museum focuses on the natural environment of the Aargau region, presenting its nature, landscape changes, and human impact over the last 8,000 years. Its permanent exhibitions include extensive collections of insects, fossils, rare bird specimens such as the great auk and passenger pigeon, and the scientifically important Herbarium Argoveniense. In 2002, the museum acquired the unique Dr. Gottfried Keller collection of over 1,200 watercolors of native and European orchids. Naturama also engages in scientific research, including dinosaur excavations in the nearby Frick quarry, and provides its archives to interested scientists. The museum's philosophy emphasizes presenting facts alongside differing opinions to encourage visitor reflection. With modernized exhibition spaces and educational programs, Naturama serves as a vital cultural and educational institution in the region.
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Tip: Visit Naturama Aargau during weekdays between 10:00 and 17:00 for a comprehensive experience. Consider purchasing tickets in advance for special exhibitions and workshops, especially during holidays like Easter. Members of the Naturama Club enjoy free admission. The museum offers educational programs and family-friendly activities, making it ideal for visitors of all ages.
Interesting facts
- •The museum houses rare bird specimens including the extinct great auk and passenger pigeon.
- •It holds the Herbarium Argoveniense, a scientifically significant collection of plant specimens.
- •The Dr. Gottfried Keller collection of over 1,200 watercolors of orchids was added in 2002.
- •The museum participates in dinosaur excavations at the nearby Frick quarry.
- •The museum building is a neobaroque structure designed by Hans Hächler, later expanded by Arthur Rüegg.
History
The origins of Naturama Aargau trace back to 1811 with the founding of the Aargauische Naturforschende Gesellschaft by passionate naturalists.
In 1827, private natural collections were united into a public Naturaliencabinet, initially housed in the Alte Kantonsschule.
After several relocations, the museum found its home in 1922 in a neobaroque building designed by Hans Hächler.
The building was expanded in the early 1950s to include more exhibition space and a lecture hall.
In the late 20th century, the museum underwent extensive modernization, culminating in a new extension designed by Arthur Rüegg, completed in 2000.
The updated exhibitions and facilities opened in 2002, marking a new era for the museum as a regional center for natural history and education.
Place Guide
Permanent Exhibition: Aargau's Natural Environment
This exhibition focuses on the nature and landscape of the Aargau region, illustrating the changes over thousands of years and the impact of human settlement. It includes fossils, insects, and rare bird specimens.
Dr. Gottfried Keller Orchid Collection2002
A unique collection of over 1,200 watercolors depicting native and European orchids, acquired by the museum in 2002. It showcases botanical art and biodiversity.
Museum Building and Architecture1922
The main building was constructed in 1922 in a neobaroque style by architect Hans Hächler. It was expanded from 1951 to 1953, and a modern extension designed by Arthur Rüegg was completed in 2000, enhancing exhibition and educational spaces.
Contact
Phone: 062 832 72 00
