Bibelmuseum (Bible Museum), Munster

Welcome to the Bible Museum, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Munster’s historic old town, just steps from the Cathedral. Founded in 1979 by renowned scholar Kurt Aland, it remains uniquely affiliated with the University of Munster’s Institute for New Testament Textual Research (INTF). The museum offers visitors an insightful journey through the history of the Bible-from ancient handwritten origins to modern translations-through over 1,500 exhibits that make it the most comprehensive museum of its kind in Germany and one of the most important worldwide.

As you explore, you’ll encounter rare Greek manuscripts on papyrus and parchment, stunning printed editions of the Greek New Testament dating from the 16th century onwards, and multilingual polyglot Bibles in Latin, Coptic, Syriac, Ethiopian, and more. A highlight is a faithful Gutenberg press recreation, plus a Luther Bible with a personal dedication by Martin Luther from his final days – all set within elegantly displayed, climate‑controlled vitrines.

The museum is organized into six thematic sections: the physical materials and creation of biblical texts; the evolution of manuscript scholarship from the 16th century to today; Luther’s revolutionary German translation; the variety of Bible traditions in German-speaking lands; the global spread and translation of the Bible; and the art and popular culture inspired by biblical stories. Interactive features and VR demonstrations bring the detective‑like scholarly work of the INTF to life, immersing visitors in the painstaking reconstruction of the New Testament's original Greek wording.

Admission is free, and the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday. Guided tours are available upon request, and accessibility accommodations are in place. Whether you're fascinated by biblical scholarship, historical manuscripts, or religious art, the Bible Museum Munster offers a memorable and educational stop on your Munster itinerary.