Memory Exhibition of Material Culture and History at Museum der Kulturen Basel

This exhibition explores how people use objects to recall and preserve memories of significant personal and social events. Drawing from 400 items in the museum’s collection, it examines the cultural practices of remembering, documenting, and sometimes forgetting.

Memory: Moments of Remembering and Forgetting investigates the human necessity to create tangible links to the past. Through a selection of 400 objects, the exhibition highlights the role of material culture in documenting personal milestones like births and weddings, as well as broader social and historical events including wars, decolonization, and political movements. It illustrates how societies across the globe have developed diverse methods for recording history, from ancient knot-tying practices in Peru and tally sticks in Switzerland to the use of sacred writings, textiles, and contemporary posters. The exhibition also explores themes of commemoration and the cycle of life and death, concluding with objects used to honor the departed, such as European grave crosses and Mexican Day of the Dead traditions. By bringing together items ranging from personal photo albums to powerful political symbols, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on how physical objects shape our understanding of the past and our perception of the present and future.

Information regarding admission and museum visits is available on the official museum website. Please check the museum's visitor information page for current opening hours and ticket details for entry to the exhibition.