Museum of Seismology and Terrestrial Magnetism
The Museum of Seismology and Terrestrial Magnetism occupies the University of Strasbourg's former seismological station, in service from 1900 and described as one of the first in the world. On the Neustadt campus, near the botanical garden, it displays the original instruments that recorded earthquakes and the magnetic field. An unusual visit for science lovers.
A pioneering station from the imperial era
When Strasbourg was German, the imperial university acquired a seismological station built specifically to observe earthquakes, operational in 1900. The museum, created in 1996, has made it its natural home: the instruments are shown in the very rooms where they worked. It reports to the School and Observatory of Earth Sciences (EOST) and is run by the University of Strasbourg's Jardin des Sciences. You learn how, more than a century ago, the Earth's vibrations were captured with pendulums and paper recordings.
Seismographs, magnetism and photographic plates
The collection brings together instruments for measuring earthquakes and recording the Earth's magnetic field, and shows how they evolved over the years. The museum's holdings also include photographic plates and items from precision-engineering firms. These massive machines of metal, levers and drums tell the story of a very physical science, long before electronics. The Jardin des Sciences offers a heritage guided tour led by a professional guide, the liveliest way to discover the place.
Planning your visit to the campus
The museum is on Rue de l'Université, in the university garden, opposite the botanical garden. Trams C, E and F stop at Université station. It isn't open every day: the calendar of self-guided visits is on the Jardin des Sciences website, and guided tours can be booked online. Make the most of it to explore the Neustadt, the district built in the German era, with the Palais Universitaire, the botanical garden and the astronomical observatory close by.
Practical information
Frequently asked questions
Where is the seismology museum?
On Rue de l'Université, on the central campus, opposite the botanical garden. Tram C, E or F, Université stop.
Can you visit on your own?
Yes, but only on certain dates: the Jardin des Sciences publishes the calendar of self-guided visits. Guided tours are also available on booking.
What is there to see nearby?
The botanical garden just opposite, the Palais Universitaire and the broad avenues of the Neustadt. CEAAC, the contemporary art centre in the Krutenau, is within walking distance.
Wikimedia Commons — Ji-Elle
