Sarner Appointed for Planning and Design of Immersive Visitor Centre at UNESCO Geopark Muskauer Faltenbogen
Following the successful opening of Sarner's project at Klimahaus Bremerhaven earlier this month, we are thrilled to announce another exciting appointment in Germany. Sarner has been appointed to lead the planning and design of a new visitor centre at the German-Polish UNESCO Geopark site, Muskau Arch - an internationally renowned location of exceptional geological and cultural significance.
This ambitious, multi-million-euro development is set to become a world-class immersive edutainment attraction, seamlessly blending cutting-edge storytelling, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences to bring the region’s rich natural landscapes, geological wonders, and socio-economic and industrial history to life. The project is led and will be operated by the 'Fürst-Pückler-Park Bad Muskau' Foundation.
At the heart of this project is a newly designed visitor centre, seamlessly integrated within the breathtaking Muskauer Faltenbogen nature reserve. Spanning the historic Kavalierhaus and a newly constructed extension designed to harmonise with the surrounding environment, this world-class edutainment attraction will bring to life the region’s history, taking visitors on an engaging journey through time - from the glacial tectonic foldings of the Ice Age to the modern challenges of climate change and energy transformation.
A powerful storytelling approach drives the exhibition, built around three core narratives. The first explores the history of the region, from its geological formation to its industrial and cultural evolution, showing how the forces of nature laid the foundation for centuries of economic and social development. It illustrates how the unique geology of the Muskauer Faltenbogen shaped industrialisation, led to the rise of lignite mining, drove the expansion of the glass industry, and spurred structural transformations that continue to define the region today.
The second examines change and disruption, highlighting the profound shifts in climate, economy, and industry that have continuously reshaped both the landscape and human life.
The third introduces the Anthropocene concept, illustrating how human activity has fundamentally altered the planet - from industrialisation and resource extraction to the environmental challenges of today. It positions the Muskauer Faltenbogen within the global discourse on sustainability and climate action, emphasising the delicate balance between progress and preservation, and the urgent need for innovative solutions to ensure a sustainable future.
This project represents an exciting fusion of education, entertainment, and sustainability, establishing the UNESCO Global Geopark Muskauer Faltenbogen as a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages.
Scheduled to open in 2028, this innovative centre will offer a dynamic, multi-sensory experience, where interactive exhibits, immersive storytelling, and cutting-edge technology come together to create a space for reflection on the ongoing transformations shaping our world today and the crucial role of sustainability and innovation in preserving this remarkable landscape for future generations.
This project builds on Sarner's extensive portfolio of work exploring the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world and inspiring a deeper appreciation for nature and history. Recent projects include the Norwegian Nature Centre and Norwegian Glacier Museum in Norway, the Wetterextreme Immersive Experience at Klimahaus Bremerhaven in Germany, and a natural history-themed immersive exhibition conceptualised for BBC Studios.
