Museum Of Communication

Overview

Nestled on the iconic Museumsufer (Museum Riverbank) in Frankfurt, Germany, the Museum of Communication offers a captivating journey through the evolution of human communication. It serves as a vibrant hub where visitors can explore how we connect, from ancient symbols to the latest digital innovations. The museum stands out not only for its comprehensive collection but also for its distinctive architecture, which seamlessly blends a historic villa with a modern, transparent glass structure.

As part of Frankfurt's rich cultural landscape, the Museum of Communication is a key institution dedicated to understanding the profound impact of communication on society, past, present, and future.

History & Cultural Background

The museum's story began on January 31, 1958, when it first opened its doors as the Bundespostmuseum, or National Postal Museum. It was a pioneering institution on the Schaumainkai, an area that would later flourish into the renowned Museumsufer.

Its origins trace back to the challenging times of World War II, when parts of the collection from the Berlin Reichspostmuseum were relocated to Hesse, forming the foundation for what would become this significant communication museum. A pivotal moment arrived in 1990 with the inauguration of a striking new building, designed by the acclaimed architect Günter Behnisch. This architectural expansion heralded a reorientation of the museum's mission and its subsequent renaming to the Museum of Communication. Since 1995, it has been proudly managed by the Museum Trust for Post and Telecommunications, ensuring its continued dedication to the field of communication.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Museum of Communication apart is its dynamic approach to showcasing the history of human interaction. The permanent exhibition, titled 'Hi|stories of media – A new telling,' traces communication's trajectory from ancient cuneiform tablets to contemporary data glasses and artificial intelligence.

The museum is renowned for its highly interactive exhibits, actively encouraging visitors to engage with the past. Here, you can try sending messages through a pneumatic tube system, dabble in Morse code, or experiment with early printing presses, offering a tangible connection to historical technologies. The award-winning architecture by Günter Behnisch is a spectacle in itself, featuring a transparent glass and aluminum design that boldly contrasts with the original, older villa. A central glass cone forms a spacious, light-filled interior, drawing the eye upwards through multiple levels. Interestingly, the main exhibition space is cleverly situated underground, a deliberate choice made to preserve the mature trees in the museum's garden. Beyond its technological displays, the museum also dedicates a section to 'Art and Communication,' highlighting the artistic interpretations of this fundamental human need. Furthermore, a lively children's workshop provides engaging and educational experiences for younger visitors.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Museum of Communication is rich with intriguing details that bring its subject to life. One of its most whimsical installations is the 'Telephone Sheeps' by artist Jean-Luc Cornec, a collection of sheep sculptures ingeniously crafted entirely from old telephones and their wires, a delightful nod to the tools of spoken connection. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a thought-provoking sculpture from the pioneering video artist Nam June Paik, setting a contemporary tone for the journey ahead.

High above the city, on the museum's rooftop, a working radio station is open for public visits on specific days, offering a unique glimpse into live broadcasting. The museum's curatorial philosophy is to recount 'media stories' in fresh and compelling ways, exploring overarching themes such as acceleration, networking, participation, and control within the context of communication. Its placement within the Museumsufer, a cultural mile along the Main River, positions it among an exceptional concentration of museums, making it an integral part of Frankfurt's vibrant cultural identity.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the Museum of Communication promises an immersive and memorable experience. It is designed to be more than just a passive viewing; it invites active participation, encouraging guests to touch, interact, and intellectually engage with the exhibits. This hands-on approach makes it a compelling destination for a diverse audience, from technology enthusiasts and history buffs to families looking for a fun and educational outing.

The museum's dedication to making complex concepts accessible is particularly evident in its interactive offerings. The dedicated children's workshop stands out as a highlight for families, where younger visitors can playfully explore the principles of communication, perhaps by sending secret messages through pneumatic tubes or dialing an old rotary phone. The Museum of Communication successfully bridges the gap between historical understanding and future possibilities, prompting visitors to reflect on how communication shapes our world and influences our perceptions of time, space, and human connection.