Forum der Völker

Located in the charming town of Werl in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, the Forum der Völker stands as a beacon of cultural diversity and historical richness. As the largest ethnological museum in Westphalia, it offers visitors a unique journey through the traditions, beliefs, and daily lives of various cultures from around the globe. With over 11,000 exhibits, the Forum der Völker is not just a museum; it is a vibrant tapestry of human heritage.

The History of Forum der Völker

The origins of the Forum der Völker date back to the early 20th century when the initial collection was housed in the Franciscan monastery in Dorsten. Established between 1909 and 1913, this early museum showcased objects from the Orient, East Asia, and the Americas, providing insights into the mission work of the Franciscans. Despite its destruction during World War II, the collection was preserved and later found a new home in Werl.

In 1962, the Forum der Völker officially opened in Werl, featuring a diverse range of artifacts collected through missionary activities, donations, and acquisitions. Over the years, the museum expanded its collection, adding treasures from Egypt, Brazil, New Guinea, Tibet, and Southeast Asia. A significant renovation and expansion in 1987-1988, led by Father Reinhard Kellerhoff, transformed the museum into the impressive institution it is today.

Exploring the Museum

The Forum der Völker is divided into several fascinating sections, each dedicated to a different region or theme. As you wander through the museum, you will encounter an array of captivating exhibits that transport you to distant lands and ancient times.

The China Collection

The China section is the largest and most comprehensive in the museum. It features an extraordinary collection of over 3,000 ancient Chinese coins, spanning from the 5th century BCE to the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1911. These early forms of currency, including spade, key, knife, and round coins, are primarily made of bronze. The collection also includes amulets, ancestor worship artifacts, Taoist and Buddhist statues, and exquisite cloisonné and porcelain vessels from the 19th century. The craftsmanship of these items, such as inlaid lacquerware, ivory carvings, and silk embroideries, is truly remarkable.

Mesopotamia

The Mesopotamia section showcases 171 cuneiform tablets from the III Dynasty of Ur, offering a glimpse into the earliest known writing system of humanity. These ancient scripts, discovered along the Euphrates River, provide invaluable insights into the civilization that once thrived in this region.

Brazil

The Brazil exhibit highlights the traditions and cultural transformations of indigenous communities in the Amazon. Through jewelry, toys, baskets, stools, and hunting weapons, visitors can explore the delicate balance between cultural preservation and adaptation to modern life. The exhibit also includes a replica of a rural house and a favela, immersing visitors in the realities of life in Brazil.

Palestine and Israel

Artifacts from archaeological excavations in Ain Shems, including delicate glass vials, terracotta figurines, and Israelite oil lamps, are displayed in the Palestine and Israel section. These items, acquired in the early 20th century, offer a window into the ancient history and religious practices of this region.

Egypt

The Egyptian collection is a testament to the ancient civilization's beliefs in the afterlife. Soul representations, winged scarabs, and god figures illustrate the Egyptians' resurrection beliefs. The collection also features protective amulets, votive stelae, and a depiction of the sun god Ra. The highlight of the exhibit is an authentic Egyptian mummy, purchased in Cairo in 1913 by a missionary for 300 gold marks.

Africa

The Africa section is divided into West and Central Africa and East Africa. It features original artifacts, photos, and information boards that provide insights into the cultures, economic systems, and landscapes of various African ethnic groups such as the Senufo, Dogon, Ashanti, and Maasai. The extensive mask collection, Benin art, musical instruments, and figurines are complemented by displays on magic, rituals, and ancestor worship. Highlights include Ashanti gold jewelry, Makonde wood carvings, and a walk-in model of an East African steppe dwelling.

Southeast Asia

The Southeast Asia section presents Hindu sculptures depicting the eternal cycle of Dharma and Samsara, offering a glimpse into the region's rich spiritual traditions.

Papua New Guinea

The Papua New Guinea exhibit features the vibrant cultures of various tribes. The Abelam are represented by a colorfully painted house gable, while masks and earth-colored sculptures introduce visitors to the world of spirits and rituals. The Medi, a highland tribe, are documented through intricately carved hanging hooks, and the Asmat, a former headhunting tribe, are represented by ancestral poles, drums, and carved war shields. The exhibit also showcases body ornaments made from feathers, animal teeth, and shells.

Tibet

The Tibet section displays everyday objects and ritual instruments, including pilgrimage items, travel gear, hanging pictures, and Buddhist bronzes. These artifacts reflect the deep spiritual traditions and local customs of the Tibetan people.

Crib Exhibition

Every Christmas season, the Forum der Völker hosts a special exhibition featuring nativity scenes from 60 countries. The museum's collection of over 600 nativity sets showcases the birth of Jesus in various cultural styles and colors. For example, an African nativity scene might include zebras and giraffes instead of the traditional ox and donkey, with the figures dressed in local attire.

The Forum der Völker in Werl is more than just a museum; it is a celebration of the rich and diverse tapestry of human culture. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about the world, a visit to this remarkable institution promises to be an enlightening and unforgettable experience.