The Eise Eisinga Planetarium is the oldest functioning planetarium in the world. It was built between 1774 and 1781 by Eise Eisinga. The entire building is a national monument. All planets move around the sun in the same amount of time as real planets do. In addition the museum exhibits an extensive collection of historical astronomical instruments.
Science & Technology Astronomy
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00 – 17:00 |
Open all year around
Between 1 April – 31 October
Also on Mondays 11:00 – 17:00
Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Eise Eisingastraat 3, Franeker
Eise Eisinga Planetarium has 5 ratings.
The Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker, the Netherlands, is a unique historical attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into 18th-century astronomical understanding. Built between 1774 and 1781 by Eise Eisinga, a wool comber with a passion for astronomy, this planetarium is recognized as the oldest working planetarium in the world.
The main highlight is the intricate ceiling-mounted orrery, which accurately depicts the solar system as it was known in Eisinga's time. Visitors often express amazement at the precision and complexity of this handcrafted model, which continues to function after more than two centuries. The planetarium's ability to showcase the movements of the planets in real-time is frequently praised as both educational and awe-inspiring.
The museum also includes Eisinga's living quarters, providing insight into 18th-century Dutch life. Many visitors appreciate this additional historical context, finding it adds depth to their understanding of Eisinga and his work.
While the planetarium is generally well-received, some visitors note that it's quite small, which can lead to crowding during busy periods. Additionally, a few reviews mention that the explanations could be more comprehensive, especially for those without a background in astronomy.
The museum offers guided tours, which are often highly recommended by visitors for their informative nature. However, some international visitors have reported that not all information is available in English, which can be a drawback for non-Dutch speakers.
Overall, the Eise Eisinga Planetarium is widely regarded as a worthwhile visit for those interested in astronomy, history, or unique cultural experiences. Its blend of scientific innovation and historical significance makes it a distinctive attraction in Franeker.
This planetarium - and the fact that is has been build such a long time ago - is just impressive and it is still functioning after all those years. The museum is setup very well. First it provides you with some information about the universe and solar system, the history of astronomy and the context in which Eisigna made the planetarium. It also tells you a little about how the clock work functions.
You can see the clock work in the room located above the planetarium and consists of many gears(made of nails and wooden plates) controlled by a pendulum clock.
The planetarium it self is very impressive and shows the sun, Mercurius, Venus, Earth (with moon), Mars, Jupiter and Saturnus and their position in real time.
Visited on 26 Aug 2021
A good find in a small town, definitely not to be missed when you are in the Netherlands! The main planetarium is the major attraction and it is unbelievable that Eisinga constructed it so many years ago. It is situated in the middle of nowhere, but still really worth a visit, especially with children!
Dit betrekkelijk kleine museum is erg indrukwekkend. Het stukje werk dat Eise Eisinga in zijn woonkamer heeft gebouwd getuigd van een briljant persoon. Erg kunstig gemaakt en wat een vernuft!
Het huis van Eise Eisinga met in zijn woonkamer en het planetarium dat nog steeds accuraat is. Als je je in Friesland begeeft, moet je hier zeker naartoe. Erg indrukwekkend wat deze man allemaal heeft gedaan. Een echte genie!
Visited on 12 Mar 2016
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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