Bern Historical Museum / Einstein Museum, Bern (must see)

The Bern Historical Museum, located in Bern, stands as the second-largest historical museum in the country. It was architecturally crafted by André Lambert from Neuchâtel and constructed in 1894. The museum's design draws inspiration from 15th and 16th-century historic castles, reflecting its original conception as the intended Swiss National Museum before Zurich was chosen for that role. A significant extension was added to the building in 2009, enhancing its capacity and exhibit space.

This museum is a designated heritage site of national significance and boasts an extensive collection that chronicles the history of Bern from prehistoric times to the present. Additionally, it houses diverse artifacts from Asia, Oceania, America, and Egypt. Among its notable items are the Muri statuette group, which consists of six Gallo-Roman bronze figurines, and the Moringen arrowhead, a piece determined in 2023 to be of meteoric origin after being part of the museum's collection for over a century.

Visitors are also greeted by a stunning glass mosaic titled "The Age of History" by Swiss painter Léo-Paul Robert, crafted in 1900, which adorns the museum's entrance. This piece features allegorical figures of Poetry and History, setting the thematic tone for the collections housed within.

An integral part of the Bern Historical Museum is the Einstein Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Albert Einstein, who developed his revolutionary theory of relativity while residing in Bern. This museum, originally set up as a temporary exhibition in 2005, now permanently offers about 1000 square meters of exhibition space dedicated to Einstein. It features some 550 original objects and replicas, 70 films, and numerous animations that delve into Einstein's biography and his scientific contributions, as well as the historical context of his era.

In addition to the main museum, the Einsteinhaus, where Einstein lived during his time in Bern, is also open to the public as a separate attraction with its entry fees. This site provides a more personal glimpse into the life of the renowned physicist during one of his most productive periods.

Why You Should Visit:
The Einstein exhibit has a great number of Einstein artifacts and goes into a very detailed history of his life and work while also trying to explain special & general relativity understandably.
The main collection, centered on local history, covers some rather universal themes, has some excellent historical room recreations, and also a beautiful montage of Bern's "plague drawings".

Tip:
Entry to the Einstein Museum (located on the building's top floor) costs more than the general museum entry but includes both.
Renting an audio guide is not necessary as most of the time there's a text with explanations next to each display.
Make sure you climb the spiral staircase to the 'turret' to enjoy excellent views across the river to Bern's lovely buildings and landmarks.