Osnabrück Archives ⋆ The Passenger

April 12, 2025April 13, 2025

Haseschacht

Hasestollen, Museum Industriekultur, Osnabrück

The Museum Industriekultur in Osnabrück is a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the industrial history of the region, with a particular focus on mining. Situated at the Piesberg, it occupies the site of a former coal mine and quarry, offering visitors an immersive experience into the interplay between industry, nature, and society. The museum explores themes such as early factories, steam power, and the transition of Osnabrück from an agricultural town to an industrial hub. Its exhibitions include functioning steam engines, fossil collections, and insights into coal formation.

April 12, 2025April 13, 2025

Neue Sachlichkeit

The Felix-Nussbaum-Haus in Osnabrück is a museum dedicated to the works of Felix Nussbaum, a Jewish painter who was murdered at Auschwitz during the Holocaust. Designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, the building reflects Nussbaum’s life and art through its unconventional and striking design. Completed as Libeskinds first realized building in 1998, the museum features intersecting structures that evoke a sense of disorientation and confinement, mirroring the artist’s experiences during his persecution. Visitors can explore narrow corridors, abrupt intersections, and void spaces that challenge perception and create a unique emotional journey. The museum connects to the adjacent Kulturgeschichtliches Museum at various points, enhancing its integration within Osnabrück’s cultural landscape.

April 12, 2025April 13, 2025

Friedensstadt

Osnabrück, located in Lower Saxony, is a city steeped in history and culture. Founded by Charlemagne in 780, it became an important bishopric and trading hub during the Middle Ages. Its name likely derives from the Low German words for ‚ox‘ and ‚bridge‘, reflecting its early significance as a crossing point over the Hase river. Osnabrück played a pivotal role in European history as one of the cities where the Peace of Westphalia was signed in 1648, ending the Thirty Years’ War. This treaty marked a turning point in diplomacy and religious coexistence, earning Osnabrück the title of ‚City of Peace‘ (Friedensstadt).

April 12, 2025April 13, 2025

Pax Westphalica

Rathaus des westfälischen Friedens, Osnabrück

The historic town hall of Osnabrück is a striking example of late Gothic architecture, constructed between 1487 and 1512. Its façade is characterized by an 18-meter-high hipped roof, complemented by six small towers that evoke the appearance of a fortress. A central flight of stone steps leads to the main entrance, which features a bronze handle inscribed with the year 1648 and adorned with a dove symbolizing peace. Above the entrance stands a statue of Charlemagne, the founder of Osnabrück, flanked by eight sculptures of German emperors, including Friedrich Barbarossa and Wilhelm I. These statues were gifted by the Prussian royal family in the 19th century, adding historical depth to the building’s exterior.

April 12, 2025April 13, 2025

All Quiet on the Western Front

Erich-Maria-Remarque-Friedenszentrum, Osnabrück

The Erich-Maria-Remarque-Friedenszentrum in Osnabrück is a small but significant museum dedicated to the life and work of Erich Maria Remarque, the city’s most famous son. Remarque, born in Osnabrück in 1898, is celebrated worldwide for his literary contributions, particularly his anti-war themes. The museum provides visitors with an intimate glimpse into his life, showcasing personal items such as his expansive desk and offering the opportunity to read his works translated into various languages.