Dresden Technical Collections to Close for Renovation

The Dresden Technical Collections will undergo renovations over the next three years at a cost of just over 20 million euros. As a result, the museum will be closed to visitors starting next Monday, the city announced. A farewell celebration is planned for Sunday. Parts of the interactive Science Center exhibits will be on display starting in spring 2027 at the City Museum in the Landhaus.

Industrial landmark to undergo comprehensive renovation

The extensive renovation is intended to preserve this significant industrial landmark for the long term and ensure the museum’s continued operation, officials said. Last but not least, the goal is also to reduce the building’s energy costs. A photovoltaic system is planned for the roof. The 48-meter-high tower will be equipped with a second emergency exit. 

According to Stephan Kühn (Greens), the city’s mayor in charge of construction, the federal government has promised up to six million euros in funding—for the energy-efficiency renovation portion, which alone is expected to cost 13.8 million euros. 
In parallel with the renovation, planning for the “Garden of Sciences” will continue. Starting in 2030, the inner courtyard is to be redesigned.

The museum is known far beyond Dresden’s borders

“The Technical Collections uniquely combine the history of technology and culture with science communication. With their combination of museum, science center, and educational venue, they inspire people of all generations and raise Dresden’s profile as a hub for science and culture far beyond the city limits,” emphasized Annekatrin Klepsch (The Left), the city’s mayor for culture.

The Technical Collections is the largest museum in the city of Dresden. In addition to permanent exhibitions on the history of photography, film, computers, and other media technology, it regularly hosts special exhibitions. 

The museum is located in the so-called Ernemann Building. It is considered a landmark of 100 years of the photography and film industry in Dresden.
After World War II, VEB Pentacon made the Ernemann Tower the trademark of the GDR camera industry. The state capital of Dresden took over the historic building and established a museum there in 1992 with the Technical Collections.