Museum of Communication (Bern)
History
The Museum of Communication in Bern, Switzerland, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1907. Originally known as the Postal Museum, it was dedicated to the history of the Swiss postal service and telecommunication. The museum underwent a significant transformation in 1997, when it was renamed the Museum of Communication and expanded its scope to include all forms of communication.
Collection
The Museum of Communication houses an extensive collection of artifacts related to the history of communication. These include historical postal vehicles, telegraph equipment, early telephones, and radio and television sets. The museum also has a large collection of stamps, including some of the earliest Swiss stamps and rare international specimens.
Exhibitions
The Museum of Communication hosts both permanent and temporary exhibitions. The permanent exhibition, "Communicate. Media Worlds of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow", takes visitors on a journey through the history of communication, from the invention of writing to the digital age. The exhibition features interactive displays and multimedia presentations, allowing visitors to experience the evolution of communication firsthand.
Temporary exhibitions at the Museum of Communication often focus on specific aspects of communication or explore contemporary issues related to media and technology. Past exhibitions have included "The Art of Coding", which explored the creative potential of computer programming, and "Fake News", which examined the phenomenon of misinformation in the digital age.
Educational Programs
The Museum of Communication offers a range of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These include guided tours, workshops, and special events. The museum's educational programs aim to promote understanding of the history and impact of communication technologies, as well as to encourage critical thinking about the role of media in society.
Architecture and Facilities
The Museum of Communication is housed in a modern building designed by the Swiss architectural firm Atelier 5. The building's design reflects the museum's focus on communication, with open spaces and transparent elements that facilitate interaction and exchange. The museum also includes a library, a café, and a museum shop.