Cabinet d'astronomie et de physique de Cassel, museum in Germany
The Astronomisch-Physikalisches Kabinett is a museum in Kassel's Orangerie that displays scientific instruments spanning several centuries. The collection includes old telescopes, globes, clocks, vacuum pumps, and mechanical devices that show how scholars studied nature without modern technology.
The collection began in the 16th century under Landgraf Wilhelm IV., who gathered scientific devices as symbols of power and learning. During World War II, many items were damaged or lost, but local residents helped rebuild the collection afterward.
The name reflects its dual focus on astronomy and physics as interconnected sciences displayed throughout the rooms. Visitors notice how the local rulers of Hesse viewed scientific inquiry as central to their authority and the education of their time.
The museum is located in the Orangerie Palace within Karlsaue Park and is easy to reach. Most explanations are in German, so visitors should be prepared for this, which helps with understanding the displays better.
The planetarium dome measures 10 meters (33 feet) across and projects stars onto the ceiling while visitors recline to watch. This facility opened in 1992 and remains one of the largest in the Hesse region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
