Arithmeum and its collection

Arithmeum
Source

The Arithmeum was founded by Bernhard Korte, the director of the institute, who also contributed his private collection of calculating machines. As of 2008, the museum's collection included 4500 calculating machines, 2000 books, 800 works of art, and 500 historical computers. This extensive collection offers a unique insight into the history and development of computing technology.

Permanent Exhibition at the Arithmeum

The Arithmeum's permanent exhibition, "Calculating then and now", provides a comprehensive overview of the development of mechanical calculating. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including historical calculating machines, calculating aids like the abacus, historical calculation books, and the legendary Enigma cipher machine from World War II. The exhibition also features nautical and astronomical measuring tools, offering a broad perspective on the history of calculation and measurement.

Art Collection at the Arithmeum

In addition to its scientific and technological exhibits, the Arithmeum also boasts an impressive art collection. This includes works by Max Bill, Camille Graeser, Richard Paul Lohse, Charmion von Wiegand, and other representatives of Concrete Painting. Since 2022, the museum has also been home to the historical Arithmomètre of Pius IX, further enriching its diverse collection.

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Arithmeum
Lennéstraße 2
53113 Bonn

Visitor information Arithmeum

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday
11:00 – 18:00
Wednesday
11:00 – 18:00
Thursday
11:00 – 18:00
Friday
11:00 – 18:00
Saturday
11:00 – 18:00
Sunday
11:00 – 18:00

Admission

Family€8.00
Normal rate€3.00
Students€2.00

Free entry for preschool children and severely handicapped people.

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible

Location & Map

Lennéstraße 2, Bonn

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Arithmeum have been found.

Arithmeum Reviews

Arithmeum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Arithmeum in Bonn, Germany, is a specialized museum that offers visitors an intriguing look into the world of mathematics and computing. Located on the campus of the University of Bonn, this museum showcases a wide array of historical calculating machines, from ancient abacuses to modern computers.

    Visitors often appreciate the museum's extensive collection of mechanical calculators, which demonstrates the evolution of computational devices over time. The exhibits are well-organized and provide clear explanations, making complex mathematical concepts accessible to a general audience.

    Many reviewers praise the interactive displays that allow hands-on experience with various calculating machines. This aspect of the museum is particularly engaging for both children and adults, offering a practical understanding of how these devices work.

    The museum's architecture, featuring a striking glass cube design, is frequently mentioned as an impressive aspect of the visit. The building itself is considered a piece of art, complementing the technological exhibits inside.

    While the Arithmeum receives mostly positive feedback, some visitors note that the museum is relatively small and can be thoroughly explored in a couple of hours. A few reviewers mention that some exhibits could benefit from more detailed English translations, as the primary language of the museum is German.

    The staff is generally described as knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the overall experience for many visitors. However, a small number of reviewers felt that guided tours could be more readily available or better advertised.

    Overall, the Arithmeum is well-regarded for its unique focus on the history of calculation and computing. It's particularly recommended for those with an interest in mathematics, computer science, or the history of technology. While it may not appeal to everyone, it offers a distinctive and educational experience for those curious about the development of computational tools.

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  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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