Rolls-Royce Museum
Vorarlberg
The Rolls-Royce Museum, located in Dornbirn, Vorarlberg, Austria, is a privately owned automobile museum dedicated to preserving and exhibiting an extensive collection of Rolls-Royce cars, primarily from the early 20th century. Established in 1982 and opened to the public in 1999, the museum has been renowned for housing around 70 Rolls-Royce vehicles among over 1,000 objects including original parts, accessories, and literature. The collection focuses on unique and historically significant models such as the 1927 Phantom I driven by Peter O’Toole in "Lawrence of Arabia," the 1927 Phantom I owned by General Franco, the 1932 Phantom II driven by Rita Hayworth, and the 1936 Phantom III owned by Queen Elizabeth. Originally housed in a large former textile factory, the museum was relocated to a smaller building owned by the founding family after 2017, focusing on special exhibits and rotating themes annually. The museum offers visitors insight into the craftsmanship and heritage of Rolls-Royce, showcasing vehicles as artful and bespoke creations of their time.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for current opening hours and special exhibitions. Due to the museum's smaller exhibition space after relocation, it's recommended to plan visits around new thematic displays. Advance booking for guided tours can enhance the experience. Membership options offer benefits like year-round free entry and discounts in the museum shop. The best time to visit is during spring to autumn for favorable weather and special events.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds one of the world's largest collections of Rolls-Royce cars, with around 70 vehicles on display.
- •It features historically significant cars such as the 1927 Phantom I used in the film "Lawrence of Arabia."
- •The collection includes vehicles owned by notable figures like General Franco and Queen Elizabeth.
- •The museum was originally located in a 19th-century textile factory covering 4,500 m² over three floors.
- •After 2017, the museum moved to a smaller building due to financial constraints but continues to focus on special exhibits and rotating themes.
History
The Rolls-Royce Museum was founded by Franz Vonier in 1982, who began collecting Rolls-Royce vehicles dating from 1923 to 1939 after establishing a Rolls-Royce repair workshop in 1968.
The museum opened to the public in 1999 in a former textile factory in Dornbirn, showcasing an extensive collection of original vehicles and parts.
After the founder's death in 2017, the museum faced financial challenges leading to relocation to a smaller venue owned by the family, focusing on unique exhibits.
In 2024, it was announced that the Rolls-Royce Automobilmuseum closed due to economic reasons, marking an end to the museum's original large-scale operations.
Place Guide
1927 Phantom I (Lawrence of Arabia)1927
This iconic 1927 Phantom I was famously driven by actor Peter O’Toole in the film "Lawrence of Arabia," representing the elegance and prestige of early Rolls-Royce automobiles.
1936 Phantom III (Owned by Queen Elizabeth)1936
A rare 1936 Phantom III once owned by Queen Elizabeth, showcasing the bespoke craftsmanship and royal patronage associated with Rolls-Royce vehicles.
Contact
Phone: 0664 1334908
