SONNENWELT Großschönau: A Journey Through Time and Energy

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Explore the past, present, and future of energy at this interactive Austrian museum. A journey through time, sustainability, and innovation.

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SONNENWELT Großschönau

SONNENWELT Großschönau is an interactive museum in Lower Austria that explores the history of energy and sustainability through engaging exhibits and hands-on activities. Visitors travel through 12 'time zones,' discovering how humans have interacted with energy sources throughout history, from ancient civilizations to modern innovations.

A brief summary to SONNENWELT Großschönau

Sonnenplatz 1, Großschönau, 3922, AT
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Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

Plan at least 2 hours to explore the museum comfortably and engage with the interactive exhibits.
Visit during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds.
Take advantage of the free guided tours in German offered from Tuesday to Friday.
Enjoy the Energy-Experience-Playground next to SONNENWELT, which is free for everyone.

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Getting There

Public Transport

The closest train stations to SONNENWELT are in Gmünd and Zwettl. From Zittau, Germany, take bus line 11 to Großschönau. From Varnsdorf, Czechia, take the train to Grossschoenau(Sachs). Alternatively, bus line 512401 runs from Varnsdorf to Großschönau. A single bus ticket from Varnsdorf to Großschönau costs approximately €1.
Car

SONNENWELT Großschönau is located at Sonnenplatz 1, 3922 Großschönau. From Bautzen, take B6 towards Löbau, then S148 to Neugersdorf, followed by Neueibau, Leutersdorf, and Spitzkunnersdorf to reach Großschönau. Parking is available at the location, including designated spaces for wheelchair users and families. There are no tolls on the direct approach to SONNENWELT.

Discover more about SONNENWELT Großschönau

SONNENWELT Großschönau is more than just a museum; it's an immersive experience that takes visitors on a captivating journey through the history of energy and its impact on human civilization. Nestled in the heart of the Waldviertel region in Lower Austria, this unique attraction combines education, entertainment, and hands-on activities to create a memorable and thought-provoking visit for all ages. The adventure begins with a short introductory film that sets the stage for exploring the themes of sustainability, energy, and climate protection. From there, visitors embark on a self-guided tour through 12 distinct 'time zones,' each representing a different era in human history and our relationship with energy. The exhibits are designed to be interactive and engaging, encouraging visitors to touch, explore, and learn through play. Starting with 'Von Sonne und Erde' (From Sun and Earth), the first zone explores the fundamental interplay between the sun, atmosphere, and our planet. Moving on to 'Nester bauen' (Building Nests), visitors discover the origins of humanity and the energy-efficient nomadic tents of early humans. 'Sesshaft werden' (Becoming Settled) delves into the transition from nomadic life to settled communities, examining how the last ice age influenced human settlement patterns and the development of new energy sources. As visitors progress through the time zones, they encounter the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. SONNENWELT also features a special exhibition called 'The Powerchanger' that explores the world of renewable electricity, from sustainable energy production to efficient use in homes and mobility. This exhibition encourages visitors to consider the role of electricity in their daily lives and how they can contribute to a more sustainable energy future. The museum is committed to accessibility, with wheelchair-friendly parking and barrier-free access. A playground dedicated to the four elements (fire, water, earth, and air) is located next to the museum and is free for everyone. Visitors can also relax and recharge at the SONNENWELT café, which offers a variety of beverages and snacks.