The Vonderau Museum in Fulda, Germany, is a must-visit destination for families exploring the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. As the largest museum between Kassel and Frankfurt, the Vonderau Museum offers a diverse range of exhibitions and events that cater to visitors of all ages, making it ideal for a family outing.
Highlights
- Permanent exhibitions showcasing cultural history, natural history, painting, and sculpture
- Archaeological finds, models, and reconstructions illustrating cultural epochs from the Stone Age to the Iron Age
- Small planetarium with 35 seats and full-dome video projection, one of the most modern in Germany
Contents
Photo: fulda.de
Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Vonderau Museum is worth visiting with kids, as it offers a hands-on approach to learning that engages children of all ages. Children can explore the museum's collections fun and engagingly with interactive stations and exhibits designed to spark curiosity. The museum's focus on cultural and natural history makes it an excellent choice for families looking to educate their children while providing an enjoyable experience.
Family-friendly features
- Interactive exhibits and hands-on stations for children
- Guided tours and workshops tailored to different age groups
- Spacious layout and easy navigation for families with strollers or wheelchairs
History and Foundation
Photo: fulda.de
The Vonderau Museum was founded in 1875 thanks to a private foundation and was named after Joseph Vonderau, a teacher and local historian who discovered numerous archaeological objects during his excavations. Today, the museum houses three permanent exhibitions with a regional focus on cultural history, natural history, painting, and sculpture.
Fulda City Palace is 400 meters away, which we also recommend visiting with the whole family.
Permanent Exhibitions
The Vonderau Museum houses three permanent exhibitions offering a comprehensive look at the Fulda region's cultural history, natural history, painting, and sculpture.
Cultural History
Photo: fulda.de
The cultural history section takes visitors from the Stone Age to today. Archaeological finds, models, and reconstructions illustrate the development of human settlements in the area. Highlights include:
- Coin cabinet showcasing Fulda's numismatic heritage
- Exhibits on Fulda faiences and porcelain, reflecting the region's ceramic traditions
- Furnished rooms depicting bourgeois living culture from the Baroque to Art Nouveau periods
Painting and Sculpture
The museum's art collection features works by renowned local artists, providing a glimpse into the region's artistic heritage. Visitors can admire:
- Paintings and sculptures by Johann Andreas Herrlein, a prominent court painter of the 18th century
- Landscapes by Rhön painters capture the beauty of the surrounding countryside
- Works by the Junge Kunstkreis Fulda, a group that explored post-war modernism from 1958 to 1973
Natural History
The natural history exhibition focuses on the diverse flora and fauna of eastern Hesse, both past and present. Naturalistic dioramas showcase the region's characteristic ecosystems, while geological aspects are presented through models, fossils, rocks, and mineral resources. The exhibition aims to educate visitors about the natural wonders of the Fulda region.
Special Exhibitions and Events
In addition to its permanent exhibitions, the Vonderau Museum regularly presents special exhibitions from various areas, ensuring that there is always something new to discover. The museum also offers target group-oriented guided tours, museum talks, demonstrations, and workshops, making it an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Building and Facilities
The Vonderau Museum is housed in a four-winged complex built in the late 16th century. It originally served as a papal seminary and Jesuit school. With almost 4000 m² of exhibition space, it is the largest museum between Kassel and Frankfurt. The museum also features a small planetarium with 35 seats and a full-dome video projection, one of the most modern in Germany.
Best Time to Visit
Photo: museen.de
Summer is a great season to take your kids or family to this museum, as the weather is pleasant and the museum's outdoor areas are open for exploration. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with guided tours available on weekends.
It is recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours to experience the museum's offerings fully.
Our Resume
The Vonderau Museum in Fulda is a family-friendly destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and education. With its diverse exhibitions, interactive activities, and modern facilities, the museum provides an engaging and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are interested in archaeology, natural history, or art, the Vonderau Museum has something to offer everyone in your family.
