Ever wondered what treasures lie hidden within the walls of Freiburg’s Albert-Ludwigs-University? The answer is here at the Archäologische Sammlung. It is a captivating journey through time. The Archäologische Sammlung is more than just a museum. It is a portal to the ancient world. It holds a remarkable collection of original artifacts and casts.
Established in 1855 the Archäologische Sammlung faced considerable losses during the Second World War. A bombing raid in 1944 destroyed the collection of plaster casts and the coin collection. But from the ashes rose a renewed dedication to preserving history. Ludwig Curtius saved a collection of vases and shards. Otto Puchstein brought architectural fragments from Baalbek to Freiburg.
Today, the Archäologische Sammlung boasts around 3,000 original objects of ancient art. These include marble portraits. The collection also contains 47 Roman architectural fragments from Baalbek in Lebanon. About 800 casts of Greek and Roman sculptures complement these artifacts.
Imagine walking among these relics. Visualize the skilled hands that crafted each piece. The Archäologische Sammlung displays Greek, Etruscan, and Roman antiquities. They span from the 2nd millennium BC to the 5th century AD. This covers a period of 2,500 years.
Marvel at the ceramics, bronzes, and glassware. Admire the terracotta figurines. See the small masterpieces of Greek vase painting. Do not miss the late classical Italian skyphos of the Gnathia type. The collection features ancient portraits and reliefs. The plaster casts include world-famous statues. These feature the Apollo Belvedere and the Venus de Milo. Also admire the Laocoon. The collection includes portrait galleries of famous Greeks. See Themistocles, Pericles, Euripides, and Socrates. See Plato and Aristotle. Roman emperors are present too. These include Augustus to Septimius Severus.
Initially a teaching collection, the Archäologische Sammlung has blossomed. It now serves as a public museum and cultural venue. It hosts regular temporary exhibitions. One can attend guided tours and concerts here. Enjoy theater and dance performances. It is a place for readings.
In 2008, the Archäologische Sammlung moved to the Herder building during library renovations. The former paper warehouse transformed into a modern exhibition space. It reopened in 2011. The Archäologische Sammlung became fully accessible once again.
Visiting the Archäologische Sammlung is an adventure. It is open Tuesdays to Thursdays from 2 PM to 6 PM. On Sundays, it is open 11 AM to 5 PM. You can also book tours by appointment. This hidden gem continues to inspire and educate. It connects us to the civilizations that shaped our world.