At Im Zollhafen in Cologne, the Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum traces sport from ancient Greek athletics to the modern era, with a focus on German athletes and sporting history. Across roughly 2,000 square metres, you’ll find memorabilia, replicas, original objects and audio-video displays; many exhibits have English descriptions. Try the interactive activities, including a boxing ring and a bicycle in a wind tunnel. Look out for Michael Schumacher’s car and racing overalls, and for displays that address the political use of sport, including under Nazi Germany.
Sport from antiquity to the present
The museum follows sporting history from ancient Greek athletics to modern times, with particular attention to German sport and athletes. Its displays combine memorabilia, replicas, original objects, illustrations and audio-video material. Many exhibits include English descriptions, which helps international visitors follow the material.
The collection covers sporting equipment and the people associated with it. Michael Schumacher’s car and racing overalls are among the items on display. Para-sport is included, too.
Sport to try and examine
Some parts of the museum invite you to take part. Interactive activities include a boxing ring and a bicycle set up in a wind tunnel. The displays also look at how sport has been politicised, including during Nazi Germany, alongside the history of sports and athletes.
The museum is in a former warehouse built in 1898. Its location at Im Zollhafen puts it beside the Lindt museum and the big ferris wheel.
Häufige Fragen
Does the museum have English descriptions?
Many exhibits have English descriptions.
What can you do at the museum?
Alongside its displays, the museum has interactive activities, including a boxing ring and a bicycle in a wind tunnel.
Is para-sport represented?
Yes. Para-sport is included in the museum’s displays.
