Globe of Gottorf, Astronomical globe in Kunstkamera Museum, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
The Globe of Gottorf is a walk-in celestial sphere housed in the Kunstkamera Museum. Its outer surface shows Earth's geography while the interior displays stars through a pattern of gilded nails, creating a complete astronomical model.
A German duke commissioned this scientific instrument in the mid-1600s as a demonstration of astronomical knowledge. The Russian ruler Peter the Great later acquired it and brought it to his new capital, where it has remained since.
The globe reflects 17th century understanding of space and astronomy, showing how scholars of that era organized knowledge about Earth and the cosmos. Visitors can see this blend of art and learning captured in its physical form.
The globe sits on the museum's upper floor in a dedicated exhibition space. Access to the interior is typically arranged in small groups at scheduled times, so it is worth checking conditions before your visit.
The interior chamber was designed to hold around a dozen people, allowing visitors to experience the cosmos from within. This hands-on approach helped people grasp complex astronomical concepts in an era before modern technology.
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