Gutenberg Museum

The Gutenberg Museum is one of the oldest museums of printing in the world, located opposite the cathedral in the old part of Mainz. It is named after Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of printing from movable metal type in Western Europe.

Among the biggest treasures of the collection are two original Gutenberg Bibles printed around 1450. Another highlight is the recreated workshop of Gutenberg where skilled printers demonstrate how books were printed in the 15th century. A short film introduces visitors to the life and work of the inventor of the modern printing press.

At the Gutenberg Museum, you will see printing presses from all eras, learn about printing techniques used in Europe and elsewhere, and find out how books were produced in the past. The museum also explores the history of paper and writing. Additionally, it features a special area dedicated to the history of print media. The collection of the Gutenberg Library includes job prints, bookplates, and print graphics as well as posters, fine editions, and art books (by appointment only).

Temporary exhibitions focus on the history of book production, modern print graphics or typography, spanning from Gutenberg's time to the 21st century.

References:

• Mainz Tourism

Address

Liebfrauenplatz 5, Mainz, Germany

Details

Founded: 1900
Category: Museums in Germany
Historical period: German Empire (Germany)