"Typically Mannheim!"

17th century

The show begins spectacularly with a large model of the city that outlines Mannheim's history using stunning three-dimensional projections. Then, a virutal prestation of the council minutes recalls life in the 17th century and recounts everyday stories from what was still a young city.

18th century

The 18th century is represented by the electors Johann Wilhelm, Karl Philipp and Karl Theodor. They talk to and about each other in a virtual art gallery and boast of their deeds for the city. The scientific achievements of that era can be explored playfully in a laboratory. But the societal ills of the time are also on display, evidenced here by an orphange.

19th century

The 19th century is illustrated by a large Collection Wall, which can be used to explore Mannheim's journey as a trading and industrial city, the increasing importance of the middle classes, women and the workers' movement, and its almost "American growth" into a major city with a large immigrant population around 1900. Another exciting chapter explains how the water tower became Mannheim's landmark. Visitors also have the unique opportunity to take a virtual tour of Mannheim in a replica of the Benz Patent Motor Car.

20th and 21st century

In the other part of the exhibition, the show focuses on the caesuras, upheavals and radical changes of the 20th and 21st centuries. The two world wars left traces that can still be felt in the city today. An impressive, interactive digital wall provides information on aspects such as the rebuilding of Mannheim or how the cityscape has changed. At the end of the tour, an exciting production informs visitor about individual personalities and their history, and Mannheim residents talk about what makes their district livable and lovable - after all, the "Square City" is still considered a city of suburbs today.

Further information

Further information can be found in the folder on the city history exhibition.

For children

For children, a special activity booklet has been developed that leads through the exhibition on an entertaining rally. It can be purchased for 1 EUR at the box office.

Guided tours

We offer regular public tours of the exhibition. In addition, private group tours can be booked. For more information on our guided tours, please here.

Note

Individual media stations with visual, audio, and film sequences appeal to emotional, cognitive, and physical stimuli. Light and sound effects may possibly trigger physical reactions in sensitive and health-challenged individuals. Children under the age of 10 should visit the exhibition accompanied by an adult.