The splendor of minerals: "Terra Mineralia" show turns 15

The large mineral show "Terra Mineralia" in Freiberg has attracted more than 1.2 million visitors since its opening. To mark its 15th anniversary, there are now some new features for visitors. For example, the introduction to the exhibition has been redesigned, said Managing Director Andrea Riedel.

On the one hand, more reference is being made to the Ore Mountains/Krušnohoří World Heritage Site. On the other hand, technical applications of minerals have developed further since the opening, which is also highlighted in the presentation. The semiconductor industry in Freiberg plays a special role here, explained Riedel.

One of the largest collections in the world

For 15 years, minerals have been presented in all their splendor and diversity at Freudenstein Castle in the heart of Freiberg. The basis of the show is the donation of Erika Pohl-Ströher's private collection to the TU Bergakademie Freiberg. It comprises around 20,000 exhibits, only some of which are shown in the exhibition - around 3,500 pieces. According to Riedel, one of the most impressive pieces is an amethyst gland weighing around 400 kilograms. The exhibition is one of the largest of its kind in the world.

To mark the anniversary, the Bergakademie has invited guests to a festive event with various lectures on Friday afternoon. Special guided tours were also to be offered in the evening. Riedel emphasized that the aim was to build more bridges between the exhibition and the university's courses in the future. "Because behind the minerals, gemstones and meteorites in the exhibition are many fields of study in Freiberg." She cited the fields of geology and mineralogy as examples.