Museum der Kulturen

The Museum der Kulturen Basel is the largest ethnographic museum in Switzerland and one of the most important in Europe. Its collections, which now number in the hundreds of thousands of objects, include masks, textiles, sculptures, tools, musical instruments and everyday items from Africa, the Americas, Asia, Oceania and Europe. The museum sits on the Munsterplatz, opposite the cathedral, in a handsome nineteenth century building that has been extended with a striking modern roof, a faceted skin of folded tiles designed by the Basel architects Herzog and de Meuron. The museum approaches culture through ideas rather than a simple tour of countries, so exhibitions might link festivals, clothing, rites of passage or art from across the world. Displays are well lit and carefully labelled, and the permanent collection is complemented by temporary shows. The collection of masks and ritual objects, along with the textiles from the Andes and the Pacific, are particular strengths.

Allow about an hour and a half for a visit. The museum is not enormous, and it works well as a calm morning or afternoon stop on a day around the Munsterplatz. A good plan is to visit the minster, climb or sit on the Pfalz terrace, and then spend an hour in the museum before lunch. The cafe tables outside are a lovely place to rest on a sunny day.

The museum is well suited to children, who often enjoy the colourful masks, costumes and musical instruments, and the family friendly programme includes trails and workshops at selected times. Staff are friendly and happy to point out highlights, and many labels are available in English as well as German. There are audio guides and short guided tours on certain days.

Opening days are usually Tuesday to Sunday, with a closing day on Monday, and hours may vary by season or exhibition. Tickets are reasonably priced, with reduced rates for students and families. Entry is included in many Basel museum passes, so if you plan to visit several museums in a few days, it is worth comparing the cost of a pass with single tickets.

Accessibility is good, with lifts and level floors in most areas, and the museum has a small shop with books, textiles and gifts that make thoughtful souvenirs. As with many museums, bags and umbrellas may need to be left in a cloakroom, and photography without flash is often permitted, though some temporary exhibitions have their own rules.

The location makes the museum easy to add to almost any itinerary. It is five minutes from the Marktplatz, a short walk from the Kunstmuseum and close to the Rhine ferry landing, so you can fit it between a church visit and a river crossing. For visitors who like the world beyond the usual art museum route, it is a quietly fascinating stop.

Look up at the roof from the Munsterplatz as well as at the exhibits inside, since the folded tile design by Herzog and de Meuron is a sight in itself. On a clear day, step outside afterwards for a coffee on the square, with the red minster looking down. Ask at the desk about guided tours, which are offered on selected days.