Stemmler Museum

Stemmler Museum Guide: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Essential Information for Schaffhausen’s Historical Site

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Situated in Schaffhausen’s picturesque Old Town, the Stemmler Museum offers an immersive journey into Switzerland’s conservation heritage and the legacy of Carl Stemmler (1882–1971), a furrier turned pioneering naturalist. Housed in Stemmler’s historic residence and workshop, the museum features a unique blend of natural history, regional culture, and early wildlife advocacy. Its exceptional collection of taxidermied birds, rare nests, original manuscripts, and period artifacts provides visitors with a rare glimpse into the evolution of environmental consciousness and artisanal craftsmanship in early 20th-century Switzerland.

Integrated with the Museum zu Allerheiligen, Schaffhausen’s leading cultural institution, the Stemmler Museum is now professionally preserved and promoted as a vital part of the city’s heritage landscape. With free admission, accessible visiting hours, and engaging guided tours, it stands as a must-visit destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike. For up-to-date details, visitor guidance, and event announcements, consult the official Museum zu Allerheiligen website and myswitzerland.com.

Introduction
Carl Stemmler: From Furrier to Conservationist
Museum Collection and Exhibits
Visiting Hours and Admission
Location and Accessibility
Guided Tours and Special Events
Nearby Attractions
Interactive Experiences and Visitor Services
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Tips
References and Further Reading

Carl Stemmler: From Furrier to Conservationist

Carl Stemmler began his career in his family’s fur business, but his passion for wildlife transformed him into a self-taught ornithologist and taxidermist. Driven by a deep empathy for birds of prey—such as golden eagles and bearded vultures—Stemmler became a leader in early 20th-century Swiss conservation, advocating for the protection of threatened species and influencing environmental awareness nationwide (myswitzerland.com; atlasobscura.com). Before his death, Stemmler bequeathed his comprehensive collection and workshop to the city, creating a public resource for education and preservation (allerheiligen.ch; stadt-schaffhausen.ch).

Museum Collection and Exhibits

Ornithological and Zoological Highlights

The museum’s five floors are filled with hundreds of meticulously preserved bird and mammal specimens, focusing on both native Swiss and Siberian fauna. Notable displays include rare birds of prey, the last capercaillie nest from the Randen region, and extinct local species. These taxidermied specimens, arranged in original display cases with handwritten labels, evoke an authentic “cabinet of curiosities” rarely seen in modern museums (museums.ch; allerheiligen.ch).

The Furrier’s Workshop

A unique feature is the preserved furrier’s workshop, complete with original tools and materials. This exhibit not only demonstrates early 20th-century craftsmanship but also prompts reflection on the relationship between human industry and wildlife conservation (myswitzerland.com).

Artistic and Scientific Documentation

Visitors can admire Stemmler’s own drawings, watercolors, and early photographs, blending scientific observation with artistic expression. Personal manuscripts and campaign materials reveal his commitment to documenting and protecting biodiversity (atlasobscura.com; museums.ch).

Exhibition Style

Displays maintain their original mid-20th-century arrangement, preserving the historic ambiance and educational approach that characterized Stemmler’s era (Allerheiligen Museum).

Visiting Hours and Admission

Regular Hours: Sundays, 11:00–17:00
First Friday of the Month: 17:00–21:00, with a guided tour at 17:30
Holiday Openings: Easter Sunday/Monday, Pentecost Sunday/Monday, 11:00–17:00
Closed: Other public holidays
Group Visits: By appointment outside regular hours

Admission: Free for all visitors; no tickets required (Allerheiligen Museum Stemmler; myswitzerland.com)

Location and Accessibility

Address: Sporrengasse 7, 8200 Schaffhausen, Switzerland (Allerheiligen Museum Stemmler)
Access: Easily reached by public transport and a short walk from Schaffhausen city center
Accessibility: The historic building has narrow staircases and compact spaces. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the museum in advance for assistance (Allerheiligen Museum Stemmler).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours: Available by appointment for groups; in multiple languages upon request (myswitzerland.com).
First Friday Events: Monthly evening opening with a themed guided tour at 17:30.
Workshops and Family Activities: Interactive programs and educational events for children and families are regularly scheduled.
Temporary Art Installations: Collaborations with Vebikus Kunsthalle Schaffhausen present contemporary art in the display windows, bridging nature and art (Allerheiligen Museum Stemmler).

Check the official museum website for the latest event updates.

Nearby Attractions

The Stemmler Museum is ideally located for combining with other Schaffhausen highlights:

Munot Fortress: A 16th-century fortification with panoramic views
Museum zu Allerheiligen: Archaeology, history, and art in 80+ rooms (museen.de)
Rhine Falls: Europe’s largest waterfall, a short drive away
Haus zum Ritter: Medieval city house with mural facade
Old Town Walking Tours: Explore Schaffhausen’s heritage on foot (Schaffhauserland Tourismus)

Interactive Experiences and Visitor Services

Audio Tours: Free audio guides for adults and the “Hör-Expedition” for children are available for download to your smartphone (Allerheiligen Museum Stemmler).
Photography: Permitted without flash; some restrictions may apply, so check with museum staff.
Facilities: No café or shop on site, but central location provides easy access to dining and shopping in the Old Town (Cheerful Trails).
Restrooms: Limited due to the historic building.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of the Stemmler Museum?
A: Open Sundays 11:00–17:00, and first Friday of the month 17:00–21:00 with a guided tour at 17:30. Group visits by appointment.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, museum entry is free for all visitors.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, bookable for groups or during special events; multiple languages may be available.

Q: Is the museum accessible for visitors with reduced mobility?
A: Contact the museum in advance to discuss accessibility needs due to the historic building’s limitations.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography without flash is permitted in most areas; restrictions may apply to select exhibits.

Q: Are there family or children’s activities?
A: Yes, regular workshops and an audio expedition for children are offered.

Summary and Visitor Tips

The Stemmler Museum is an outstanding destination for anyone interested in conservation, natural history, and Swiss heritage. Its authentic displays, well-preserved furrier’s workshop, and unique educational programs offer a memorable and inspiring visit. With free admission and a central location, it’s an accessible experience for all ages.

Visitor Tips:

Plan your visit for a Sunday or join a special First Friday event for a guided experience.
Download the audio tours before your visit for a more immersive experience.
Combine your museum visit with nearby attractions for a full day in Schaffhausen.
Contact the museum ahead if you have specific accessibility needs or are planning a group tour.

For the most current information, events, and travel tips, visit the official Museum zu Allerheiligen Stemmler page and myswitzerland.com.

References and Further Reading

Images and media for online articles should include descriptive alt text, e.g., “Taxidermied golden eagle at Stemmler Museum, Schaffhausen” or “Carl Stemmler’s original taxidermy workshop tools.”