Inside Palais Mollard on Herrengasse, the Globe Museum of the Austrian National Library is devoted to terrestrial, celestial, lunar and planetary globes. Its collection holds more than 600 examples, with around 200 shown in the exhibition, including globes dating from the 15th century. Look closely at the large, ornate works by Vincenzo Coronelli, then explore how globes relate to geography, navigation and astronomy. The museum is compact, so it suits a focused stop for anyone interested in maps, science or the history of how people pictured Earth and the heavens.
A museum devoted to globes
The Globe Museum is inside Palais Mollard at Herrengasse 9 in central Vienna. Founded in 1956, it is devoted to the study and display of globes. Its collection contains more than 600 objects, while around 200 are presented in the exhibition.
The displays include terrestrial and celestial globes, as well as lunar and planetary examples. Some date back to the 15th century. Together, they show how globes have been made in different forms and used to represent Earth and the heavens.
Look closely at the details
The large, ornate globes by Vincenzo Coronelli are among the collection’s standout objects. Their intricate surfaces reward a slower look: these are decorative works as well as tools connected to geography and astronomy.
Celestial globes are another focus to explore. The collection also includes relief globes, models showing Earth in relation to other planets, globes of other planets and an 18th-century planetarium device. Information about globe types is available in German and English.
Planning a visit
The exhibition is compact, and a visit can take 30 to 60 minutes. If you want more context about how the globes were made and what distinguishes one type from another, consider taking a guided tour.
The Esperanto Museum is downstairs and can be added to the visit for a look at the history of Esperanto and the responses it received from authorities. The Globe Museum is closed on Mondays. Advance tickets are recommended.
FAQ
How long do you need at the Globe Museum?
Allow 30 to 60 minutes to explore the collection.
What can you see at the Globe Museum?
The collection includes terrestrial, celestial, lunar and planetary globes, as well as an 18th-century planetarium device.
Are the displays in English?
Information about the different types of globes is available in German and English.
Is there another museum in the building?
The Esperanto Museum is downstairs and covers the history of Esperanto and the attitude of authorities toward it.
