Bereichsnavigation
Grand opening of the PETRI Berlin Archaeology Lab: a unique project combines research with experience
Press release from 04/01/2025
On 24 June 2025, PETRI Berlin will open its doors on the Spree Island and invite visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of archaeology. The unique cooperation between the Museum of Prehistory and Early History of the National Museums in Berlin and the Berlin State Monuments Office surprises with an innovative approach that combines workshops and the area for visitors. The meeting of the public and experts strengthens participation and understanding of archaeology using the example of Berlin's still often hidden archaeological heritage and the collection of the Museum of Prehistory and Early History.
The beginnings of Berlin: the excavations at Petriplatz and their significance
In 2007-2009 and 2015, extensive excavations were carried out on Petriplatz in Berlin's historic centre, which have contributed to our understanding of the city's beginnings. In addition to traces of settlements from the founding period of the twin city of Berlin and Cölln and the remains of the foundations of a Latin school, the remains of St Peter's Church, which was repeatedly rebuilt and reconstructed, came to light. It is the nucleus of the town of Cölln, which was built on the Spree island opposite the city of Berlin. The mention of its priest Symeon in 1237 is considered the first documented mention of the twin city. In addition, 3787 bones were recovered from the Petrikirchhof, whose extensive analyses provided important insights into the early inhabitants of the city. PETRI Berlin is built on the foundations of the medieval Latin school found during the excavations.
PETRI Berlin: bringing archaeology to life
The aim of the new Archaeology Lab is to raise awareness of Berlin's historical depth and to convey archaeology in all its facets by providing access to archaeologically and historically significant finds. These artefacts come from all over the city of Berlin. In addition, the study collection of the Museum of Prehistory and Early History is moving from the Langhansbau of Charlottenburg Palace into the PETRI. This is the core collection of finds from prehistory and early history, from the Palaeolithic period to Heinrich Schliemann's collection of Trojan antiquities and modern artefacts.
"Archaeology fascinates people not only because of its findings, but also because of its methods. At PETRI Berlin, the special interplay of discoveries, state-of-the-art technical investigation methods, restoration skills and scientific acumen can be experienced in a unique way. This is a school of archaeology in the best sense of the word," explains Matthias Wemhoff, State Archaeologist and Director of the Museum of Prehistory and Early History.
However, the building designed by Florian Nagler Architekten will not only house artefacts, but also the Museum of Prehistory and Early History's restoration workshops and magazine, as well as the State Monuments Office with a project room for presenting current excavations. This unique combination of workshops, storage and project areas creates a tour of discovery through the entire building for visitors, allowing them to experience the individual stages of archaeological work, from the discovery of the objects in the ground to the restoration work and the storage and exhibition of the finds. The processes and work that previously took place behind closed doors become visible in the PETRI.
"Berliners and their guests are very interested in the numerous excavations in the city. But these often take place hidden behind construction fences. At PETRI Berlin, it will now be possible for the first time to look over the shoulders of archaeologists as they go about their daily work. Finds from the Berlin excavations are cleaned, inventoried and packed in the project rooms of the State Monuments Office. Here you can admire many finds unearthed from Berlin's soil for the first time before they are restored and handed over to the Museum of Prehistory and Early History," explains Christoph Rauhut, State Conservator and Director of the Berlin State Monuments Office.
Discover archaeology: from the find to the exhibition at PETRI Berlin
The PETRI is more than just an exhibition - it is a living space of discovery. Starting with an "Archaeological Window" on the ground floor, which shows a view of the medieval city structure, visitors can not only experience the historical depth of Berlin, but also the various facets of archaeology. A display shelf with archaeological finds from the Stone Age to the near past connects the floors above ground. On the individual floors, glass workshops, the project room of the State Monument and the magazine of the Museum of Prehistory and Early History show various archaeological work processes.
An interactive game gives visitors the opportunity to actively interact with artefacts and experience how they are handled, from excavation to restoration and storage. Interactive touchscreens, multimedia elements and digital reconstructions make it possible to see archaeological techniques in action and actively involve museum visitors. The exhibition is largely barrier-free. The PETRI aims to make a contribution to an open society and enable cultural participation for all visitors with inclusive programmes. For example, there will be an audio guide with information on selected objects with audio descriptions in German and English, making it possible for people with visual impairments to tour the museum. This is being developed with a focus group and will be available from autumn 2025. The exhibition can also be experienced through various tactile objects.
Pupils can experience how exciting and entertaining the topics of archaeology and history are in educational formats designed especially for them. The formats promote an understanding of archaeological methods and arouse interest in science and research.
In addition to the "Discover Archaeology" exhibition, a varied programme will provide insights into archaeological processes and current research topics.
PETRI Berlin is open Tuesdays to Fridays from 9 am to 5 pm and at weekends from 10 am to 6 pm. Admission is free for children and young people up to the age of 18.
The launch of the website is planned for the beginning of May 2025.
Save the Date: The press tour on the occasion of the grand opening of PETRI Berlin will take place on 19 June 2025 at 11 am. The invitation will follow. Registrations are already possible. If you have any questions, please contact Laura Groschopp l.groschopp@smb.spk-berlin.de.
