Potsdam Natural History Museum, Potsdam

The Natural History Museum in Potsdam is housed in the historic Zauche Estate House (Ständehaus der Zauche), a building originally constructed in 1770 under the direction of architect Georg Christian Unger. Originally serving as a legislative building, it stands as a notable example of the cultural re-use of heritage-listed structures, having been repurposed to showcase the region's rich biodiversity. The building, which suffered damage during the Second World War and was subsequently rebuilt in the 1970s and early 1980s, was enhanced in 2005 with the addition of a baroque front garden.

The museum spans 650 square meters across four floors, offering a comprehensive exploration of Brandenburg's animal kingdom. The permanent exhibitions include sections such as “Brandenburg’s Animal Kingdom and its History of Biodiversity,” “Animals in the Garden,” and a prominent aquarium known as the “Fish of Brandenburg,” which houses over 40 native fish species including pike, sturgeon, and wels catfish. Visitors can observe various preserved animals, such as a female brown bear, a wolf, and an elk, displayed throughout the museum.

A notable feature of the museum is its large aquarium, situated in the basement, which has a 50-year tradition and serves as a significant educational and display area for local aquatic life. The museum also addresses global ecological challenges through its exhibition “In Human Footprints — Biological Invasions,” which delves into the worldwide spread of non-native species and their impact on local ecosystems. In addition to its permanent displays, the museum offers temporary exhibitions that further enrich its educational and cultural offerings.