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.](/fileadmin/_processed_/9/2/csm_37__c__Landesmuseum_Natur_und_Mensch_Oldenburg_Foto_Studio3x3_17e3564d26.jpg)
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.](/fileadmin/_processed_/8/5/csm_10__c__Landesmuseum_Natur_und_Mensch_Oldenburg_Foto_STUDIO_3x3_b37dcf030d.jpg)
Located on the first floor in the Coast and Marshland exhibition area, the Cabinet of Natural Curiosities showcases collection pieces in a unique setting. This exhibit captures the museum atmosphere of the 19th century, a period marked by exploration and scientific discovery. The Cabinet of Natural Curiosities features objects from the collection of the former Grand Duchy Museum.
Before you even enter the cabinet, there’s an interesting detail to observe. The hanging boats on the ceiling outside the cabinet illustrate how artifacts from around the world arrived in German museums. Trade and maritime activity have long been key economic factors in the northwest German coastal region.
Inside the cabinet, you’ll find preserved animals, bird eggs and skeletons.
A Complex Legacy
The Cabinet of Natural Curiosities was designed in the 1970s. While its presentation may seem fascinating at first glance, it is no longer considered contemporary. Some exhibits originate from colonial contexts, and object descriptions, cultural attributions and geographic names are sometimes outdated. As part of the re-evaluation of the colonial era and related collection items, an “intervention” was introduced in the cabinet. Background information about specific objects was added and visitors were invited to contribute questions and comments. This project addressed the increasingly critical issue of how European museums handle exhibits acquired in colonial contexts.
![[Translate to Englisch:] Zwei Kinder spielen in der Ausstellung am Großsteingrab.](/fileadmin/_processed_/7/e/csm_18__c__Landesmuseum_Natur_und_Mensch_Oldenburg_Foto_STUDIO_3x3_06ea62a141.jpg)
![[Translate to Englisch:] Drei Personen stehen in der Ausstellung. Sie schauen auf Wagenräder hinter einer Glasvitrine.](/fileadmin/_processed_/e/b/csm_3__c__Landesmuseum_Natur_und_Mensch_Oldenburg_Foto_STUDIO_3x3_90d06a6e63.jpg)
