As part of the European Garden Exhibition EUROGA in 2002, our information centers and museums in the region around Düsseldorf and Venlo, between the Rhine and the Meuse, formed a network.
As a participant in this network, we see cross-border connections in the natural history and cultural history of this region. This forms the basis for the current landscape, in which numerous traces of geological and habitational history have been preserved.
Many of these historical aspects are incorporated and illustrated in our information centers and museums throughout the region. Visitors will not only find information resources here but also have the opportunity to experience the current natural and cultural landscape between the Rhine and Meuse rivers in person.
All those working together in this regard cordially invite you to visit.
Where one of Europe’s most visited and modern museums now stands, the Neanderthal, from which the museum takes its name, was discovered about 150 years ago. This Neanderthal has become world-famous. Reason enough to establish an entire museum for him.
In this multimedia museum, visitors of all ages can experience an exciting and varied journey through history, with impressive displays, audio guides, films, and interactive PCs. Outside the museum, geological sites and the nearby wildlife park can also be visited. Wild horses, bison, and aurochs are successfully bred in the park.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Neanderthal Museum
Talstr. 300
D-40822 Mettmann
tel.: 0(049) 21 04-97 97 97
fax: 0(049) 21 04-97 97 96
e-mail: museum@neanderthal.de
Since 1929, the local nature and landscape museum, now called the “Museum for Nature and Landscape,” has been located in the west wing of Benrath Castle. The museum’s collection focuses primarily on the natural history of the Lower Rhine Bay and Lower Bergisches Land regions.
Visitors to the museum walk uphill from the Rhine, following the terraced landscape formed by the river. Here, they are introduced to the river, the floodplains, the low, middle, and main terraces, and the “Bergische Land” (Bergische Land). The flora and fauna are also presented. A wealth of interesting information is also displayed about ecological relationships and the origin and development of the habitats found here. At the end of this walk through the regional exhibition, a beautiful view from the plateau to the silhouette of the city of Düsseldorf awaits.
Special attractions include the “Cuckoo Clock of Benrath,” breeding birdsong in the morning hours around Benrath Castle, in the atmosphere of an electronically generated dawn, live bees in an observation hive, and a “bee dance clock.” A walk through geological history begins the constantly expanding exhibition on evolutionary biology: a computer-generated presentation provides 15-minute insights into the history of the Earth’s origins from the Big Bang to humankind, with information about continental drift and reconstructed images of life in various time periods. A family tree for plants and animals displays the ages and family relationships of various fossils at the push of a button. An interactive computer program provides an impression of the living creatures of prehistoric times. A small planetarium with a computer astro program allows for a glimpse into the starry world. The exhibition “Rivers and Floodplains, with the Rhine as a Special Focus” showcases the wide variety of the richest plant and animal species. habitats in Central Europe. Attention is also paid to regional nature and environmental protection in floodplains.
Further information about biology classes for all ages and school formats, holiday activities, children’s birthdays, evening presentations, temporary thematic exhibitions, and the museum magazine “Acta Biologica Benrodis” is available from:
Opening hours
Winter season (1.11. – 31.3.): Tue – Sun: 11 am – 5 pm
Summer season (1.04. – 31.10.): Tue – Fr: 11 am – 5 pm Sat and Sun: 11 am – 6 pm
Benrather Schloß
Benrather Schloßallee 102
D-40597 Düsseldorf
Tel.: 0(049) 211/8 99 72 16
Fax: 0(049) 211/8 92 94 68
Stadt Düsseldorf • Kreis Mettmann e.V.
Nature protection between Rhine and the „Bergische Land“
15 years of active involvement in nature conservation
The Haus Bürgel Biological Station was founded in 1991 and has been located in the manor house of the former Roman castle “Haus Bürgel” since 1996. This station coordinates nature conservation in the protected natural areas and landscapes owned by the city of Düsseldorf and the district of Mettmann. The station, with its volunteers, acts as a link between official and private nature conservation organizations. The station is also part of a network of more than 40 biological stations in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Organization and Funding
The members of the Haus Bürgel Biological Station Association include the district of Mettmann, the city of Düsseldorf, and six members from recognized nature conservation organizations such as the “Interessengemeinschaft Haus Bügel/Urdenbacher Kämpe e.V.” The biological station is funded by the Land Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia State), the Mettmann district, the city of Düsseldorf, and donations. The Stiftung Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia Foundation) supports the work by purchasing and renovating Haus Bürgel and acquiring valuable wetland meadows and orchards.
Activities
We research the flora and fauna and document fundamental ecological data. Based on this, management and development measures are planned and implemented: pollard willows, shrubs, and orchards have already been planted and are being maintained, fallow meadows are being mown, and overgrown marshes are being reclaimed. Regular monitoring surveys provide insights into the success of the measures. The condition of wetland meadows can be assessed, for example, based on the presence or absence of certain plant and animal species. The measures can then be adjusted as needed.
We advise the government on the development of management plans and provide advice on the desired nature management approach. We also advise farms located in nature reserves on environmentally friendly land management practices and potential financial support. For example, meadows are only mowed after the herbs have finished flowering.
Together with volunteer conservationists, we are inventorying the bird, grasshopper, and amphibian populations in the city and the entire region and publishing the results in journals.
Through excursions, presentations, information boards and information stands, we try to inspire as many people as possible to live (more) environmentally consciously.
Actively contribute
We appreciate any support you can offer, whether it’s financial or simply by participating. Would you like to support us with a donation? Our bank details are listed below: Biologische Station Haus Bürgel, Account No.: 87 006 128, BLZ 300 501 10 at Stadtsparkasse Düsseldorf.
Donations are gratefully used to plant fruit trees, for environmental education, or to produce brochures and information boards. Donations are tax-deductible. To receive a donation receipt, please visit the Biological Station office at 0492 11-99 61 212.
Contact:
Biologische Station Haus Bürgel
Stadt Düsseldorf • Kreis Mettmann e.V.
Urdenbacher Weg – Haus Bürgel
D-40789 Monheim am Rhein
Tel: 0(049) 2 11-99 61 212
Fax: 0(049) 2 11-99 61 213
E-Mail: info@biostation-D-ME.de
Who doesn’t remember it from their own childhood, as a child? The petting zoo with pigs rolling in the mud and grunting contentedly. The chickens clucking around the proud, brightly colored rooster, who crows loudly in the morning even though the hens have already laid their first egg. It feels like something out of a picture book when you enter the courtyard of the petting zoo in Neuss through the large gate and see the familiar animals. The old wash boiler, where laundry was once boiled or bathwater heated, is already steaming next to the wood-fired washtub. The tour begins with a fun and fascinating exhibition of old-fashioned toys, where you can also try out games. Then the path leads past the many animal enclosures to the playground with a swing, seesaw, and climbing frame, right next to the goose meadow. A romantic stroll under the rose arches in the farmhouse garden, where the morning sun shines on the dew-drenched herb plants, is also wonderful for daydreaming. But the loud mooing of the cows in the barn and in the pasture quickly brings reality back.
Visitors can experience all this on the grounds of the petting zoo near the city of Neuss. It’s situated in a beautiful park landscape with many trees and streams, where the park of Reuschenberg Castle invites for a refreshing and relaxing stroll. The numerous educational activities give children a glimpse into and awareness of nature and its products. We look forward to welcoming anyone who wants to experience the farm in person or simply enjoy the surroundings.
The city of Neuss your green municipality.
Opening hours: year round: 9 am – 6 pm
Kinderbauernhof der Stadt Neuss
Nixhütter Weg 141
D-41466 Neuss
Applications and information:
Stadt Neuss
Amt für Umwelt und Stadtgrün
Bergheimer Str. 67
D-41464 Neuss
tel.: 0(049) 21 31-90-33 21
fax: 0(049) 21 31-90-33 71
e-mail: kinderbauernhof@stadt.neuss.de
(Makes) Science understandable.
The Geological Survey of North Rhine-Westphalia (GD NRW) from Krefeld is the central scientific geological facility of the NRW region. With more than 200 employees, the GD NRW is responsible for the inventory, recording, provision and evaluation of a wide range of geological data relevant to well construction, groundwater, arable land, raw materials and geothermal energy within North Rhine-Westphalia. The geological survey has a geological information system that provides insight into the structure, composition, properties and activities of the subsoil. Specialists provide expert advice for the research, security and sustainable use of raw materials and recommend options for future regenerative energy supplies, for services of the NRW Regional Administration, engineering firms, the raw materials industry, environmental organization and for citizens. The GD NRW operates an earthquake monitoring system and calculates the risk of earthquakes in the state of NRW. The service also determines the hazards to natural resources, soil and groundwater, as well as the hazards arising from the subsurface. By providing independent advice, it contributes to the necessary risk analysis. Current and comprehensive information on the activities and resulting results of the GD NRW can be found under:
Op facebook: www.facebook.com/geologischerdienstnrw
In winter, a forum is organized by the Geological Survey in which the employees of the GD NRW and guest speakers give presentations on geological science topics, where the current research results are announced and in which discussions are held with the audience. These lectures are freely accessible and can be attended free of charge by anyone who is interested. More information about the GD forum can be obtained via the current activity calendar on the internet under:
By giving interviews for the press, radio and television, by giving presentations at universities, schools and various associations, transparency is guaranteed and a wide audience is reached. At company meetings, trade fairs, action days, courses or seminars, experts from the GD NRW also provide information about their research and field of expertise, about the latest geological developments in NRW and about various products and services. Analogue and digital maps, magazines, flyers and brochures can be ordered via the
The large foyer of the service building hosts changing exhibitions on interesting geological themes, which are freely accessible during opening hours. In addition to the remains of an impressive whale skeleton and its own thematic exhibitions, the GD NRW also presents special exhibitions focusing on nature and the environment. Guided tours for groups, particularly school classes, are organized upon request, as are the adjoining gardens with their historical plants and unusually large rocks. The service’s various specialist departments can also be visited by appointment.
Since 2002, “The Day of the Geotop” has become a popular event throughout the country. The GD NRW coordinates this event on a national level and provides expert support. On this day, for example, excursions are held to particularly interesting geo-logical discoveries, quarries and raw material companies. In addition, guided tours of geological museums and object collections are given for the public public with advance registration. The “Open Day of the GD NRW”, which is held every two years, is interesting for young and old, partly due to the varied programme of activities. Under the internet address:
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Contact:
Geologischer Dienst NRW
– Landesbetrieb –
De-Greiff-Str. 195
D-47803 Krefeld
tel.: 0(049) 21 51-89 70
fax: 0(049) 21 51-89 75 05
e-mail: poststelle@gd.nrw.de
The open-air museum in Grefrath was opened in 1973 by the Viersen district. Many half-timbered houses and objects from the regional farming and craft culture have been given a permanent home in the folklore museum.
With its collection and presentation on life and work in the region, from times before the advent of industry and technology, the museum also fulfills a scientific mission. Research is conducted and historical data are documented about households, rural life, and crafts from earlier times.
The centerpiece is the moated castle “Museum Dorenburg,” whose history dates back to 1326. The current Dorenburg dates from the early 17th century. The Dorenburg showcases the aristocratic and bourgeois living culture of the Lower Rhine region. Special exhibitions on regional ethnographic themes are displayed on the first floor. The museum grounds include various farms, a tannery, a distillery, and a village blacksmith. A special feature of the museum is the toy museum. Spread over three floors with an exhibition area of over 300 m², historical games and toys are on display. A model railway layout has been built on the third floor of the toy museum. Track gauge HO, system Fleischmann. A miniature world has been created on an area of 60 m². The layout is complemented by systems from Märklin and Rokal.
Big events:
Every year on May 1st, a cold-blooded horse event takes place in the large meadow in front of Dorenburg Castle. Around 100 of these gentle giants enter the museum grounds. Visitors are treated to a wonderful show featuring the horses, explanations about the breed, and rides on horseback or in carriages. On the last Sunday in September, the successors to these workhorses arrive in the meadow: the tractors. Vintage tractors in many colors, shapes, and sizes can be viewed for one day in the open-air museum, as they too are a part of agricultural history. Finally, in early December, the last major event of the year is the large Christmas market.
Guided tours:
The museum offers guided tours of its temporary exhibitions. Advance booking by phone is required.
Opening hours:
January 1st – December 30th: Open Tue-Sun, closed Mon
November – March: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
April – October: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. Closed on Good Friday.
Niederrheinisches Freilichtmuseum
Am Freilichtmuseum 1
D-47929 Grefrath
tel.: 0(049) 21 58-9 17 30
fax: 0(049) 21 58-91 73 16
e-mail: Freilichtmuseum@Kreis-Viersen.de
Nature Park Schwalm-Nette
A landscape with high recreational value. Vast forests and open meadows, with numerous small streams, rivers, and lakes. One of the most beautiful nature reserves is located along the Dutch-German border between the Meuse and Niers rivers. Spanning 43.5 km², Schwalm-Nette Nature Park offers a landscape with high recreational value and great ecological importance. Since 1976, Schwalm-Nette Nature Park has been part of the 80 km² Dutch-German Maas-Schwalm-Nette Border Park.
Nature Park Centre Wachtendonk Haus Püllen
Haus Püllen is the northern nature park center of the Schwalm-Nette Nature Park, offering a diverse range of information, educational opportunities, and exhibitions for visitors. Here you can learn about landscape developments from 240,000 years ago to the present. On a journey through time, you can experience how humans have intervened in nature. Four large landscape models, audio guides about old castles and watermills, and a slide show provide a fascinating insight into the park’s unique features. Two models of flowing water also illustrate the effects of flooding. At Haus Püllen, you’ll also find interesting information about plants and animals, the natural environment, and the history of the Lower Rhine region. You’ll also receive practical tips for hiking and cycling routes.
What else is on offer:
Guided tours of the permanent exhibition with 12 models, changing exhibitions on cultural and landscape themes, educational programs for schools, seminars and further training, excursions and courses for interested visitors, farm gardens and an orchard.
Special offers for groups and school classes
Theme: History of the Schwalm-Nette Nature Park Free for school classes and recreational groups.
Visitors will be guided through time, from the penultimate Ice Age approximately 240,000 years ago, through the Middle Ages, back to the present day, and on into the future. Twelve models illustrate the historical development of the nature park’s origins. Using questionnaires, visitors can independently gather essential information from the exhibition. During the group discussion of the answers at the end of the tour, further information is provided about the biology of the animals and plants in the nature park, as well as about the landscape and culture.
Duration: approx. 1.5 to 2 hours.
Opening hours:
March to October: Tue – Fri: 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat, Sun and Fri: 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
November – February: Tue – Fri: 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat, Sun, and Fri closed
Closed: New Year’s Day, Carnival, Good Friday, Christmas.
More information available at:
Naturparkzentrum Wachtendonk
Haus Püllen
Feldstraße 35
47669 Wachtendonk
tel: 0049 (0)2162 81709-430
e-mail: wachtendonk@npsn.de
Contact: Alexander Brillen
Lakes, marshes, meadows, and forests form the Krickenbecker Seen nature reserve. This approximately 1,300-hectare Habitat Directive and bird protection area is one of the oldest protected nature reserves in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The four lakes of the Krickenbecker Seen are peat bogs where peat was cut. Today, they form valuable and protected habitats of great importance to nature management. At the heart of this extensive nature reserve lies the Krickenbecker Seen Information Center, where visitors of all ages can find plenty to do year-round.
The information center was opened in 1996 by the Krickenbecker Seen Biological Station Foundation. The biological station manages the most important nature reserves in the Viersen district. It aims to give visitors an indelible impression of the unique beauty of nature and landscape, plants, and animals, encourage environmentally friendly purchasing behavior, and inform them about the objectives and conflicts of nature conservation.
In 2005, the information center was renovated and modernized. A viewing platform now extends around the glass foyer directly to the Hinsbecker Bruch. From here, visitors can gaze far out over the lake and observe waterfowl. The exhibition space now houses a nature-focused exhibition, a nature shop, and an exhibition featuring current themes.
Four landscape models illustrate the history of the formation of the Krickenbecker Seen and the region around Nettetal, from the Ice Age to the present day. Those wishing to delve even further back in history can use large-screen slides to learn about other phenomena that have significantly influenced the landscape, such as continental drift, local earthquakes, flooding, and terrace formation.
The birdlife is the most striking group of animals in the Krickenbecker Seen area. The various species can be seen in bird drawings and prepared specimens. A computer not only displays the most important aspects of native birds, but visitors can also learn a lot about the lives of bats. Eight species of these fascinating mammals live in the Krickenbecker Seen nature reserve.
Large, impressive panoramic images beautifully depict the swamp forests and lake landscapes. Behind display glass, the associated life in and on the lake is shown in three dimensions. Pond mussels serve as a breeding ground for bitterlings, a pike lurks for prey, grebes have built a floating nest, and a kingfisher scans the water from its hunting ground for small fish and other prey. Those who look closely can discover much more. The underwater world can also be explored. Using 3D slides, which provide an exceptionally realistic image, visitors can immerse themselves in the flora and fauna of the nature reserve.
But there’s more to see than meets the eye at the exhibition. In a darkened room, you can hear bird sounds, accompanied by photos of the species singing or making other sounds at the time.
Twice a year, changing exhibitions provide information about the fascinating natural landscape of the Viersen district and about key issues in nature conservation. Photographers and artists specializing in nature and the environment also regularly present their work here.
In addition to natural regional products such as orchard juice, herbs, and honey, information brochures and books on various nature topics and hiking and cycling routes are also sold here. Finally, the coffee corner invites you for a pleasant break. The information center’s location directly on the banks of the Krickenbecker Lakes offers a wonderful opportunity for guided walks through the nature reserve. Visitors can book excursions. Group tours are available by appointment every day of the week.
Admission to the information centre is free.
Opening hours:
April–October: Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
November–March: Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Infocentrum Krickenbecker Seen
Krickenbecker Allee 36
D-41334 Nettetal
tel.: 0(049) 21 53-91 29 09
fax: 0(049) 21 53-9 58 35-9
e-mail: infozentrum@bsks.de
De Groote Heide is popularly known as Venlo’s backyard. This nature reserve, close to the city, offers a privileged location for anyone who wants to get some fresh air without having to travel long distances. The nature reserve is one of the larger heathlands in Limburg, and hikers can freely access it via marked walking routes and other paths. In addition to cycling and horseback riding trails, there’s also a roller-skating route. A dog walking area is available in the area near the Information Center along Hinsbeckerweg. Outside of these areas, dogs must be kept on a leash. This is especially important because the heathland is grazed by a flock of sheep.
Its former use as heathland, and during World War II as an airfield, combined with its diverse environment, makes this one of the most species-rich areas of the Limburg Landscape, with heathlands, nutrient-poor grasslands, and coniferous deciduous forests. Since 1998, the Municipality of Venlo has entrusted the management of both the Information Centre and the nature reserve to the Limburg Landscape Foundation.
The information center is run exclusively by an enthusiastic team of volunteers who are happy to share their knowledge of the area. You’ll encounter them as hosts at the information center or as expert guides on monthly excursions.
Throughout the year, the Information Center hosts several exhibitions organized by volunteers. These focus on the management, flora and fauna, and culture of the Groote Heide nature reserve.
Cycling and walking routes are available at the information center, and excursions and other (children’s) activities are regularly organized. Excursions are also available upon request.
Opening hours:
April to October: Wednesday and Sunday afternoons, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
October to March: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Infocentrum Groote Heide
Hinsbeckerweg 55
NL-5915 PS Venlo
Tel.: 0(031) 77-3 51 94 39
Fax: 0(031) 77-4 73 75 76
info@limburgslandschap.nl
From now on 500 square meters of exhibition
“The History of Hunting” is the title of the new permanent exhibition in the heart of Brüggen Castle. The modern staging gives visitors a clear insight into human history through the exemplary example of hunting. The design of the exhibition space and the theme highlight the connection between the hunter and his prey and the hunter within us. As they explore the historic building and engage with the questions posed, visitors are invited to experience themselves as part of the interplay between humanity and nature. After visiting the exhibition “The Seven Arguments for Hunting Today” and taking an exciting journey through the history of hunting, it’s always worthwhile to take a look at one of the temporary exhibitions created by the museum.
From the observation tower there is a fantastic view of the Lower Rhine, which makes the experience in the castle unique.
In a classroom on the castle’s top floor, visitors can learn a wealth of information and ask questions about the forests and wildlife directly. The room is equipped with modern technology and interactive exhibits, providing visitors with information on various topics related to nature and hunting, tailored to their needs. Excursions are offered, including guided forest walks, nighttime museum tours, and photo shows and play days.
An overview of our excursions and events is available by post.
Opening hours:
March–October: Tue–Sun, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
November–February: Tue–Fri, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sun, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum Mensch und Jagd
Burgwall 4
41379 Brüggen
Tel.: 0(049) 21 63/57 01 191
From now on 500 square meters of exhibition
“The History of Hunting” is the title of the new permanent exhibition in the heart of Brüggen Castle. The modern staging gives visitors a clear insight into human history through the exemplary example of hunting. The design of the exhibition space and the theme highlight the connection between the hunter and his prey and the hunter within us. As they explore the historic building and engage with the questions posed, visitors are invited to experience themselves as part of the interplay between humanity and nature. After visiting the exhibition “The Seven Arguments for Hunting Today” and taking an exciting journey through the history of hunting, it’s always worthwhile to take a look at one of the temporary exhibitions created by the museum.
From the observation tower there is a fantastic view of the Lower Rhine, which makes the experience in the castle unique.
In a classroom on the castle’s top floor, visitors can learn a wealth of information and ask questions about the forests and wildlife directly. The room is equipped with modern technology and interactive exhibits, providing visitors with information on various topics related to nature and hunting, tailored to their needs. Excursions are offered, including guided forest walks, nighttime museum tours, and photo shows and play days.
An overview of our excursions and events is available by post.
Opening hours:
March–October: Tue–Sun, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
November–February: Tue–Fri, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sun, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum Mensch und Jagd
Burgwall 4
41379 Brüggen
Tel.: 0(049) 21 63/57 01 191