Harburg Museum Dependance Finds New Home in Former Karstadt Building
The Archaeological Museum Hamburg and the Harburg City Museum have established a new museum outpost on the ground floor of the former Karstadt department store in the heart of Harburg. This move brings the museum directly to its audience, inviting all to embark on a captivating exploration of Harburg’s rich history through multiple exhibitions.
"With this offering, the museum reaches out directly to its public, inviting everyone to rediscover the southern part of Hamburg through several exhibitions on the history of Harburg," the museum announced.
The vacant building was acquired by the Hamburg Ministry of Finance, with the Senate committing 300,000 euros to the museum’s new branch. Admission to the museum is free of charge.
"We acquired the Karstadt building to provide a decisive impetus for the development of Harburg’s city center," said Finance Senator Andreas Dressel (SPD). While long-term development plans are being further developed, "Planet Harburg" already breathes new life into the former department store.
Museum Director Rainer-Maria Weiss added: "With this branch, the museum once again embarks on an innovative path, aiming to create a low-threshold offer for all social groups."
"Planet Harburg": A Multifaceted Exploration of Harburg’s Past and Present
The museum outpost "Planet Harburg" presents a wide-ranging exploration of the district’s history and identity. The main exhibition, "Harburg: A City on the Elbe," takes visitors on a journey through the city’s 1,000-year history, showcasing its diverse cultural and industrial heritage.
Another exhibition, "Harburg Portraits," presents a series of portraits and interviews with Harburg residents, offering personal insights into the district’s social and cultural fabric. "Harburg Sounds" invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich soundscape of the district, featuring a diverse range of music and spoken word performances.
Innovative Outreach and Community Engagement
The museum’s new outpost places a strong emphasis on outreach and community engagement. A dedicated education center offers a variety of workshops, guided tours, and interactive programs for all ages.
The museum has also forged partnerships with local schools, community groups, and cultural institutions to create a vibrant hub of cultural exchange and learning.
Revitalizing the City Center
The establishment of the museum outpost in the former Karstadt building is not only a significant cultural development for Harburg but also a vital step in revitalizing the city center.
The presence of a major cultural institution is expected to attract visitors and generate economic activity in the area. The museum’s innovative approach to community engagement and outreach will also contribute to creating a more vibrant and inclusive city center.
Timeline of the Project
- 2020: Hamburg Ministry of Finance acquires the former Karstadt building.
- 2021: Hamburg Senate approves funding for the museum outpost (300,000 euros).
- 2022: Archaeological Museum Hamburg and Harburg City Museum move into the ground floor of the former Karstadt building.
- 2023: "Planet Harburg" museum outpost opens to the public.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Archaeological Museum Hamburg and Harburg City Museum outpost in the former Karstadt building is a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its cultural heritage. Through its innovative exhibitions and outreach programs, "Planet Harburg" aims to foster a deeper understanding of Harburg’s rich history and foster a sense of community and belonging among its residents.
