Overview

The famous Sky Disc of Nebra is the centrepiece of the State Exhibition „The Forged Sky - the Wide World in the Heart of Europe 3600 Years ago“ (15th October 2004 to 22nd May 2005). Starting from this sensational find and showpiece of early European cultural history a lively picture is drawn of the Central European Bronze Age.

The Sky Disc, illegally excavated by treasure hunters only in 1999 and recovered in 2002, allows astonishing insights into the widespread relations of this epoch and demonstrates an intensive pan-European exchange of both material and spiritual nature.

1600 exhibits from the storerooms of the State Museum of Prehistory Halle as well as 68 lending institutions from 18 nations illustrate the contacts from the eastern Mediterranean (Lebanon) to the British Isles, from Spain to Scandinavia. The archaeological treasures - grave goods, cult implements, gold jewellery, richly decorated weapons, extensive hoards - are presented on ca. 1000 sqm arranged over three floors in the newly restored historic museum building.

Amongst the exhibited originals are unique pieces such as the famous Sun Chariot of Trundholm (DK) from the National Museum of Denmark, Copenhagen. Further highlights include the delicate gold miniature boats from Nors (DK), the princely grave of Leubingen (Thuringia) or also the heavy golden display axe of Tufalau (ROM). In large scale installations, in animations and short films the different contents of the exhibition are again taken up and explained.

A richly illustrated book on the exhibition as well as a high quality calendar have been published - both can be obtained at moderate prices in the museum shop, by telephone (0345 - 5247 - 332) or via the Internet.

After a stroll through the museum shop you can quietly relax in our museum café and review the experience over a slice of cake.

Our Visitor Support (Mrs Bode: 0345-5247-361) will be happy to answer all your questions concerning guided tours and the programme of events.