MUKS – Museum Kultur & Spiel (Culture & Play Museum), Basel

Nestled in the charming Old Wettsteinhaus, a 17th-century gem in Riehen near Basel, the Culture & Play Museum (MUKS – Museum Kultur & Spiel) is a multifaceted treasure trove of history, play, and tradition. Once known as Switzerland’s first toy museum, it opened its doors in 1972 under the original name Toy Museum, Village and Vineyard Museum (Spielzeugmuseum, Dorf- und Rebbaumuseum). Over the years, it has grown in both scope and reputation, now offering a vibrant and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

MUKS showcases an extensive collection of European toys, with a particular emphasis on wooden toys, dollhouses, tin toys, and lead figures. This impressive collection owes much to the Museum of Cultures (Museum der Kulturen) and a private collector’s bequest. The exhibits delve into the evolution of childhood play, contrasting rural natural toys like pinecones and bones with commercially produced pieces from historical hubs such as Nuremberg and the Erzgebirge region. Visitors can marvel at intricate paper theaters, model trains, and even early examples of doll kitchens.

In addition to its focus on play, the museum offers insights into everyday rural life circa 1900 through its Village Museum. The viticulture section highlights the significance of winemaking in the village’s history, bringing a sense of place and community to the exhibits.

The museum has undergone significant transformations, particularly with renovations in 2020 that introduced interactive permanent exhibitions titled Game and Village. These exhibits invite hands-on engagement, making MUKS as much about participation as observation. The dedicated play space allows younger visitors to immerse themselves in the joy of discovery, while adults can explore Riehen's rich cultural history.

With its new name and concept, the Culture & Play Museum emphasizes the universal themes of play and cultural exchange. MUKS continues to evolve, blending its storied past with innovative exhibitions to ensure it remains a beloved destination for generations to come.