Basel Historical Museum

Basel Historical Museum - Music Museum

The Music Museum of the Basel Historical Museum displays the largest collection of musical instruments in Switzerland.

Experience music history with all your senses

Exhibitions and highlights

The Music Museum of the Basel Historical Museum houses the largest collection of musical instruments in Switzerland. Around 650 European instruments from five centuries are presented on three floors, from the oldest drum from the 16th century to mechanical instruments from the 20th century. The exhibition shows both familiar and unusual forms of music-making and conveys the history of music in a vivid and varied way.

Interactive experiences

In 24 former prison cells, interactive screen stations invite visitors to select examples of music and discover in-depth information. The exhibition is complemented by guided tours, concerts, lectures and activities for families and school classes. The public supporting program is included in the admission price.

Architecture and experience

The music museum is located in a historic building complex above Barfüsserplatz, whose history dates back to the 11th century. Today, the former monastery, building yard and prison form an impressive backdrop in which the long history of construction and use has remained visible to this day, making the museum tour unique.

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All information about the Basel Historical Museum - Music Museum

Questions & Answers

What is the music museum?

The Music Museum is part of the Basel Historical Museum and displays the largest collection of musical instruments in Switzerland, with instruments from five centuries of European music history.

How much is the entrance fee?

Regular admission to the Music Museum is CHF 18, but you can also visit the Barfüsserkirche and the Haus zum Kirschgarten for seven days with one admission. Children under the age of 13 can visit the museum free of charge. Information on possible discounts can be found on the museum's website. Holders of the Swiss Museum Pass can visit the museum free of charge.

Are there also events outside the regular opening hours?

Yes, the Basel Historical Museum regularly offers guided tours, lectures, concerts and family events, some of which take place in the evening or on special occasions.

Which museums in Basel can I visit with the Swiss Museum Pass?

In addition to free admission to the Basel Historical Museum, the Swiss Museum Pass also gives you access to many other museums in Basel, including the Museum of Cultures, the Tinguely Museum and the Natural History Museum.

Where can I buy the Swiss Museum Pass?

The pass can be ordered online at museumspass.ch or purchased directly at participating museums. Digitally or as a physical card.

How long is the Museum Pass valid for?

The Swiss Museum Pass is valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. During this time, you have unlimited access to over 500 museums throughout Switzerland.