From 26 June 2022 to 5 February 2023
Roman ruins were excavated, ancient statues stood in the gardens of the nobility. History and archaeology were taught at universities for the first time, and broad circles of society began to take an interest in the historical root: What fascinated then fascinates today in a completely different way. This is the theme of the special exhibition "Fascination of History" in the Rastatt Historical Library. The exhibition is open every second Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. as well as during public guided tours and by appointment. Admission is three euros, reduced one euro.
The influence of an archaeologist
The return of Latin Europe to its Greek roots became a fundamental experience in the 18th century. In reaction to the courtly-baroque mores prevailing at the time, the rediscovery of Greek and Roman antiquity appeared as the only possible path to "true humanity." In particular, the archaeologist Johann Joachim Winckelmann influenced the ideas of Greek antiquity with his "Geschichte der Kunst des Altertums," whose essence he characterized as "noble simplicity and quiet grandeur."
New fields of study emerge
This changed with the French Revolution at the end of the 18th century. In the search for their own historical identity, the subjects of history and archaeology emerged at German universities. Parallel to this, the first antiquity and history societies were established, which were instrumental in spreading this historical awareness among the population and for the first time created something like a general "national consciousness.
Regional references
The exhibition shows valuable exhibits from the holdings of the Historical Library that characterize the development of this eventful time. The reference to Rastatt and the region is also established. Among other things, the oldest depiction of the Celtic burial mound of Hügelsheim is shown. It was printed in 1678.
Opening hours
Mon, Tue, Wed: 10 a.m. to noon
Tue: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m
Entrance fees special exhibition
Adults 3 Euro, reduced 1 Euro
Group tour 40 €, weekends and holidays 50 € (max. 20 persons)
The use of the Historical Library for scientific purposes is free of charge
More information
Online Catalog
Rastatt Historical Library: FAQ (PDF) (45 KB)
Rastatt Municipal Museums: Visitor and user regulations (PDF) (14 KB)