Description of the attraction
The Museum of Classical Antiquity at the Institute of Archeology in Bern is housed in a former paper warehouse. The interior of the former warehouse also influenced the interior of the current museum - the exhibits here are installed on wooden pallets or concrete pipes. The contrast between the decoration and the exhibits makes a unique impression on the visitors.
The museum displays 230 plaster copies of the most famous sculptures of antiquity: here and Aphrodite, born of sea foam, and Laocoon, fighting snakes, and the incomparable Cleopatra side by side with the mighty Caesar. The history of this collection dates back to 1806, when the city government commissioned plaster copies of classical statues as teaching aids for the art academy. Artistic tastes changed over time, sculptures were forgotten, and they were only appreciated again in 1994.
In the second hall of the museum, samples of small plastic art are exhibited - and these are no longer copies, but original works of the era of antiquity. Now the exposition is one of the subdivisions of the Berne Institute of Archeology. This collection is extremely popular with students and students. Various art schools hold classes here, the exposition provides the richest material for student works and projects in artistic, historical and other areas.
Please note that the museum has unusual opening hours. It is open on Wednesdays from 18.00 to 20.00; at other times - by agreement. The entrance is free.
