Museum

Museum of Cultures (Basel)

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The Museum of Cultures in Basel is one of Europe's largest ethnographic museums, housing over 300,000 objects from around the world. Its permanent exhibition 'The World in Basel' presents a stunning array of artifacts, from intricate masks and textiles to everyday tools and ceremonial objects. The museum's strength lies in its Asian and Oceanic collections, including rare pieces from Indonesia, China, and the Pacific Islands. Temporary exhibitions often explore contemporary cultural themes. The building itself is a beautiful neo-Gothic structure, and the galleries are thoughtfully arranged to encourage cross-cultural comparisons. A visit here offers a deep dive into global diversity and the stories behind the objects.

Don't miss

  • See the famous collection of Indonesian shadow puppets and textiles.
  • Explore the Oceanic gallery with canoes, masks, and ritual objects.
  • Admire the intricate Chinese porcelain and Buddhist art.
  • Visit the special exhibition on a rotating cultural theme.
  • Check out the museum's garden, which features plants from around the world.

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Ways to visit Museum of Cultures (Basel)

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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