Naturmuseum Solothurn
Solothurn
Naturmuseum Solothurn is a prominent natural history museum located in the Swiss city of Solothurn, showcasing extensive exhibitions on the region's animals, plants, fossils, and minerals. The museum traces its origins to early collections from the 18th century, evolving through the 19th century with the establishment of the Naturforschende Gesellschaft, which aimed to promote natural science knowledge. The museum features systematic ecological displays including native mammals such as lynx, wolf, and brown bear, as well as birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles, mollusks, and fish. A highlight is the world-renowned collection of fossilized turtles from the Jurassic period, discovered in local stone quarries, representing the largest such assemblage globally. The museum also hosts a 15-meter-long Foucault pendulum demonstrating Earth's rotation and a water barometer illustrating atmospheric pressure in an engaging manner. Alongside permanent exhibitions, the museum organizes special exhibitions and educational workshops for children and adults, fostering a deep appreciation of natural history and regional biodiversity. It operates in close association with Solothurn's Kunstmuseum and Historisches Museum Blumenstein, forming a cultural hub in the city.
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Tip: Visit during spring and early summer for special exhibitions and workshops, including events like insect discovery and seedball workshops. Check the official website for opening hours and event schedules. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular special exhibitions. The museum offers educational programs suitable for families and school groups, enhancing the visitor experience.
Interesting facts
- •The museum houses the world's largest collection of fossilized turtles from the Jurassic period, discovered in quarries near Solothurn.
- •A 15-meter-long Foucault pendulum swings continuously in the museum's stairwell, demonstrating Earth's rotation.
- •The water barometer on display uses a water column over 10 meters high, illustrating atmospheric pressure more dramatically than traditional mercury barometers.
- •Local authorities mandated quarry operators to contribute turtle fossils to the museum under threat of losing extraction permits, ensuring preservation of the collection.
- •The museum inherited numerous taxidermy specimens from Urs Eggenschwyler, a notable local sculptor and animal trainer.
- •The museum organizes regular workshops and special exhibitions focusing on local fauna and natural phenomena.
History
The Naturmuseum Solothurn originated from early naturalist collections dating back to 1765, initiated by an economic and agricultural society.
In 1823, the Naturforschende Gesellschaft was founded to advance physical and natural history knowledge, leading to the establishment of the first museum in Solothurn's old orphanage building.
The city opened a combined art, historical, and natural history museum in 1902, which eventually evolved into today's Naturmuseum Solothurn.
Over time, the museum expanded its collections, notably acquiring significant specimens from local sculptor Urs Eggenschwyler's animal menagerie.
The museum's fossil collection, especially the Jurassic turtles, grew through enforced quarry contributions, establishing it as a world-leading repository of these fossils.
Place Guide
Fossilized Turtles ExhibitJurassic period (~150 million years ago)
This exhibit showcases the world's largest collection of fossilized turtles from the Jurassic period, found in the stone quarries around Solothurn. It highlights the region's prehistoric marine life and the geological history of the Jura Mountains.
Foucault PendulumModern installation
A 15-meter-long pendulum suspended in the museum's stairwell, continuously swinging to demonstrate Earth's rotation. It is magnetically driven to counteract air resistance and changes its swing direction by about 10 degrees every hour.
Water BarometerModern educational exhibit
An oversized barometer filled with water rather than mercury, featuring a water column over 10 meters high. It vividly demonstrates atmospheric pressure in a way that is easier to visualize than traditional mercury barometers.
Native Fauna Displays
Systematic ecological exhibitions featuring local mammals such as lynx, fox, wolf, brown bear, and roe deer, as well as birds, amphibians, reptiles, insects, mollusks, and fish. Interactive elements include bird song recordings accessible via buttons.
Contact
Phone: 032 626 96 60