Carnival Museum

Carnival Museum

　 Introduction The Carnival Museum (Karnevalsmuseum) is located in Cologne, the heart of the carnival, and is the largest carnival museum in the German-speaking world. It has been open to the public since 2005. The origins of the Cologne Carnival can be traced back almost to the ancient Greco-Roman period. At least one fact is certain: formal carnival celebrations have taken place here since 1823.

The 1,400-square-meter exhibition space showcases this organized event and tradition over the past two hundred years. The history and colorful content of the carnival span the entire timeline from ancient Greco-Roman times through the Middle Ages to the present day.

Exhibits include floats, wearable models and costume puppets, as well as modern audio and video equipment. These vividly convey the impressions of the “fifth season,” street celebrations, and carnival festivities. The earliest record of the Cologne Carnival in the museum dates back to 1827, left by the celebration committee. Transportation Address: Maarweg 134-136. Take the subway to Maarweg Station. Tickets/Opening Hours Ticket: €4. Opening Hours: Thursday, 10:00–20:00; Friday, 10:00–17:00; Saturday and Sunday, 11:00–17:00; Tuesday and Wednesday, open only for groups. Phone: 574 0076

Cologne, Germany