Dobergmuseum

Located in the charming town of Bünde in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, the Dobergmuseum – Geologisches Museum Ostwestfalen-Lippe offers a fascinating journey into the geological past. This museum, a part of the larger Museum Bünde, is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of paleontology and geology, showcasing an impressive array of fossils primarily from the nearby Doberg fossil site.

The Doberg Fossil Site

The Doberg fossil site, a significant Oligocene epoch deposit, is one of the most comprehensive fossil localities north of the Alps. This site provides an unparalleled glimpse into the marine fauna of the Oligocene seas, with sediment layers that have remained remarkably intact over millions of years. The Doberg serves as a stratotype for the Oligocene epoch, meaning it is a reference point for the geological time period it represents. Nowhere else in the world are the sedimentary layers of the Oligocene as complete and well-preserved as they are here.

Exhibitions and Highlights

The Dobergmuseum's exhibitions are primarily focused on the findings from the Doberg site. The most famous exhibit is the fossilized skeleton of a sea cow, which has become the museum's iconic centerpiece. This remarkable specimen offers invaluable insights into the marine life that once thrived in the region. Additionally, the museum houses fossilized imprints of both fauna and flora from the Oligocene period, including parts of a toothed whale.

In the museum's garden, visitors can marvel at a cast of dinosaur footprints from the Lower Cretaceous period. The original footprints, discovered in Obernkirchen sandstone, will eventually be included in the museum's collection. For those interested in seeing more dinosaur tracks, the original site in Barkhausen, not far from Bünde, is open to the public.

A Rich Historical Background

The origins of the Dobergmuseum can be traced back to the early 20th century, thanks to the efforts of Friedrich Langewiesche, a teacher from Bünde. Langewiesche began his excavations in the Doberg in 1907 and initially displayed his collection at the local Realprogymnasium. In 1912, the sea cow skeleton was unearthed, marking a significant milestone for the collection. By 1927, Langewiesche, who had been recognized for his contributions to regional research and awarded the title of professor, donated his collection to the town of Bünde.

In 1937, the town transferred the collection to the Herford district, which established a county museum in Bünde using these archaeological treasures. This museum was housed in a traditional half-timbered building known as the Striedieck Farm, adjacent to the current Dobergmuseum. Langewiesche served as the museum's first director, overseeing its development.

Until 1999, the Striedieck Farm housed three distinct exhibitions: the German Tobacco and Cigar Museum, a local history exhibition, and the Doberg fossil collection. In 1999, with the support of the NRW Foundation and other sponsors, the new Dobergmuseum building was constructed. However, structural issues soon emerged, leading to a major renovation in 2009. The museum reopened its doors on December 22, 2011, welcoming visitors to its modernized facilities.

The Museumsinsel Ensemble

The Dobergmuseum is part of the Museumsinsel, a picturesque ensemble of several half-timbered houses and the newly built museum. This cultural hub is home to multiple museums, all under the umbrella of the Museum Bünde network. In addition to the Dobergmuseum, visitors can explore the Kreisheimatmuseum, which delves into local history, and the German Tobacco and Cigar Museum, which highlights the region's tobacco industry heritage.

Plan Your Visit

The Dobergmuseum is a must-visit for anyone interested in geology, paleontology, or the natural history of the Oligocene epoch. Its comprehensive exhibits and rich historical context make it a unique destination in North Rhine-Westphalia. Whether you're a seasoned fossil enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Dobergmuseum offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era, making it an unforgettable stop on your journey through Germany.

The museum's location on the Museumsinsel provides a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for a leisurely day of exploration. With its modern facilities and meticulously curated exhibits, the Dobergmuseum stands as a testament to the enduring fascination of our planet's geological history.