Coast and Marshland

Humans and Sea - An Eternal Love Story

Compared to the Geest, the marsh has had a relatively short natural history undisturbed by humans. Based on current research, the marsh began forming around 6000 BCE. Up until dykes were constructed, the coastline was heavily influenced by changes in sea level and their effects. Today’s marshland, however, is largely the result of human intervention.

[Translate to Englisch:] Zwei Personen stehen vor einer Schublade, in der Ausstellungobjekte liegen.

The exhibition highlights the natural and cultural history of the region as well as unique artifacts, such as prehistoric and early historical objects. One notable example is the Weser runic bones, among the oldest runic inscriptions in northwest Germany. The exhibition also delves into environmental history, incorporating interdisciplinary research like palaeobotany, which provides insights into settlement history and the dietary conditions of past cultural eras.

An exhibition highlight: A cross-section of a dyke running through the room displays the coastal habitat, complete with preserved birds and typical plants. Tip: Don’t forget to open the draws!

[Translate to Englisch:] Eine Frau steht vor einer Wand, auf der in blau die Küstenlinien leuchten.

The Cabinet of Natural Curiosities

Until February 22, 2026, the Natural History Cabinet was located on the first floor in the Coast and Marsh exhibition area. Here, collection objects were displayed in a staged 19th-century museum atmosphere - a time marked by voyages of discovery and exploration. The Cabinet of Natural Curiosities presented collection objects from the holdings of the former Grand Ducal Museum. The Cabinet of Natural Curiosities was conceived in the 1970s. As appealing as the presentation seemed at first glance, it is no longer appropriate today. This is because some exhibits originate from colonial contexts. The labels on objects, cultural attributions, and geographical names were, in part, outdated.

In September 2025, following a process lasting several months, the museum drafted a position paper on the so-called Cabinet of Natural Curiosities. In it, the institution examines the function and issues surrounding the space and establishes a starting point for future steps.

Further information on the position paper and the closure of the Cabinet of Natural Curiosities can be found here.

Find the Exhibition here

Our permanent exhibition is divided into three levels. You’ll find the Coast and Marshland area, including the Cabinet of Natural Curiosities, on the first floor.

[Translate to Englisch:] Zwei Kinder spielen in der Ausstellung am Großsteingrab.

Go to the “Geest” exhibition area

[Translate to Englisch:] Drei Personen stehen in der Ausstellung. Sie schauen auf Wagenräder hinter einer Glasvitrine.

Go to the “Moor” exhibition area