curated by Helga Sandl

The conception of the world and the universe changed fundamentally in the 17th century. The sun prevailed as the centre of our cosmos. New instruments such as the telescope and the microscope came to assist the human senses in their observation of the world. Things that had never been seen before became visible. At the same time, measuring instruments were developed that helped to describe and map countries and sea routes more and more precisely.

In an increasingly globalised world, goods and knowledge found their way across continents. And scholars exchanged ideas with each other beyond national borders. Experiment and doubt formed two fundamental methodological approaches to our understanding of the world. Illusions and optical gimmicks, distortions and aerial views excited people and fired their imagination.

It was an eventful century, not least for the Old Swiss Confederacy. It secured its sovereignty in 1648 within a Europe marked by power struggles. Despite some financial challenges, Stein am Rhein continued to use its favourable location on the river to its advantage. As a regional trading centre, it was in frequent contact with other countries.

With the aid of numerous fascinating objects from science and technology, from the world of politics and diplomacy, but also from the everyday life of the urban bourgeoisie in Stein, the exhibition offers insights into life in the 17th century.

Information for groups
We look forward to welcoming you! Pre-registration is required for organisational reasons.


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