Passionate Pursuits: Unique Museums in MV that Combine History and Fun
Unique and whimsical museums in MV: Unconventional exhibitions with a touch of affection - Unique and varying exhibits, all infused with affection: Distinctive museums across the MV islands
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, with over 200 museums, is a hotspot for passionate collectors and enthusiasts. From automobiles to art, organs to military history, these one-of-a-kind museums offer sensational and immersive experiences. Here's a peek at some extraordinary museums to visit this Museum Day, happening this Sunday!
Prora Oldtimer and NVA Museum, Prora
This remarkable museum journey started with Paderborn's railway enthusiast and collector, Ludger Guttwein. He transformed a 10,000 square meter hall in Prora on Rügen into a hub for vintage automobiles from 40 years of German-German automotive history. The museum has since expanded to include an exhibition of NVA military technology—from tanks to helicopters, to the MiG 21, and a comprehensive motorcycle exhibition. Operated as a family business, over 80,000 visitors dropped by last year, and the museum expects to greet 100,000 this year.
Skurrileum Stralsund - Museum for Comic Art
Located in a 1930s brick warehouse in Stralsund, Werner Feurich’s Skurrileum is the "spearhead of humor in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern." Changing exhibitions, mainly cartoons, make this private museum a must-see, with 700 square meters dedicated to laughter. This year, Feurich, who hails from Marburg, is showcasing Rolf Tiemann's paintings under the title "Masterpieces of Comic Art." The Skurrileum, established in 2012, welcomes around 20,000 visitors annually, including none other than former Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Natural Treasure Chamber, Gemstone & Amber Center Neuheide
taxidermist Robby Krasselt founded the Natural Treasure Chamber in Neuheide near Graal-Müritz, where a wide variety of preserved fungi and animals, from fence lizards to sea eagles, captivate visitors. The Kunde family, active in the gemstone trade, joined in and expanded the exhibition to include gemstones and minerals. Around 2,000 gemstone exhibits, from diamonds to opals, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires to various jade types, can be seen. Local amber is also showcased. In total, there are ten exhibition areas with around 60,000 exhibits covering 1,000 square meters. This private museum attracts approximately 25,000 visitors per year.
Baltic Sea Border Tower Museum, Kühlungsborn
The demolition of the former coastal border watchtower in Kühlungsborn was narrowly prevented after reunification, leading to the formation of a society dedicated to preserving it. Today, the watchtower is open to the public, and a museum has been created. Visitors can climb the tower and learn about the stories of people who attempted to flee from the GDR across the Baltic Sea to the West. The museum houses authentic pieces, such as the folding boat used for escape, and tells tales of both successful escapes and tragic fates. It's one of only two remaining watchtowers along the DDR Baltic Sea coast.
Mecklenburgische Orgelmuseum Malchow
The Mecklenburgische Orgelmuseum Malchow, nestled in a monastery church, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing historic organs from Mecklenburg. Eleven historically significant organs, restored to playability, can be seen and heard in the church. The museum not only tells the story of the organs and Mecklenburg organ building but also presents them in concerts. Approximately 15,000 visitors enjoy the sensory delight of this museum per year.
- Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
- Unique Museums
- Art
- Comic Art
- Gemstones
- Humor
- Military History
- Organ Music
- Authentic History
- Graal-Müritz
- Tourism
- Culture
- Escape Stories
- Kühlungsborn Watchtower
- Malchow
- Organs
- Rügen
- Museums
- Transportation History
Additional Insights:
Other Remarkable Museums:
- DDR Museum in Malchow: Offering an ideology-free experience, this museum provides a compelling look into the history and culture of former East Germany[1].
- Schwerin Castle Museum: Housed within a breathtaking castle and a parliament hall for the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, this museum exhibits beautiful paintings and porcelain of royal origin[2].
- Schloss Ludwigslust: Known for its collection of Flemish masterpieces amassed by the Mecklenburg dukes during the 17th and 18th centuries, this museum provides a rich cultural experience[5].
Additional Cultural Experiences:
- Kunstkaten Ahrenshoop: This art gallery displays works from local artists, offering a glimpse into the region’s vibrant art scene[4].
- Western Pomerania Lagoon Area National Park: For a combination of culture and nature, this national park offers scenic hikes, wildlife viewing, and nearby cultural experiences[4].
- The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the protection of the environment, focusing on homes and gardens, to ensure a sustainable lifestyle and promote the preservation of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's unique museums and historic sites.
- A visit to the Prora Oldtimer and NVA Museum serves as a testament to the region's rich transportation history, providing a fascinating glimpse into the automobile and military history of German-German relations, while offering an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
