Experimenta Heilbronn, Science center in Heilbronn, Germany

Experimenta Heilbronn is a science center housed in the former Hagenbucher warehouse and a new building on the Kraneninsel. The complex includes the four-floor Entdeckerwelten with about 275 hands-on stations, the Erlebniswelten with a Science Dome whose 700-square-metre dome projection covers a 150-seat auditorium rotatable by 180 degrees, an observatory and an experimental theater, and the Forscherwelten with eight laboratories, an experiment kitchen, the Nordwürttemberg youth research center and a Maker Space.

The Hagenbucher warehouse served cultural purposes until 2003, when the decision was taken to convert it into a science center. The Berlin office studioinges won the architectural competition in 2006, construction began in May 2008, and the experimenta opened on 14 November 2009. A second building by Sauerbruch Hutton followed on the Kraneninsel, and the expanded center reopened on 31 March 2019.

The place serves as a hub where people can engage with science hands-on through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. It brings together visitors of all ages who want to explore and experiment rather than simply observe.

The site is located on an island, so it is helpful to follow the pedestrian pathways that lead to the grounds. Visitors should plan enough time to explore all levels and different areas without rushing.

A glass connecting element between the historic warehouse and the new section displays green and yellow details that stand out against the brown-red bricks of the original building. This design choice makes clear how old and new architecture were intentionally brought together.