For centuries, Saxony - particularly the regions of Chemnitz, the Ore Mountains, and Vogtland—has been one of Germany’s key industrial centers. Many technical and industrial developments of global significance originated here, including innovations in Saxon mining, as well as contributions to toolmaking, textile machinery, automotive engineering, and office machine technology.
Selected exhibits displayed on a “silver line” through the exhibition hall of the Chemnitz Museum of Industry impressively illustrate the economic development of Saxony’s major industries. Vehicles of the DKW brand presented in a tower reflect the spirit of automotive engineering in the early 20th century. They tell the story of the unforgettable Saxon automobile brand and inspire visitors to explore the life of company founder and pioneer of front-wheel drive, Jørgen Skafte Rasmussen, whose unique private collection has enriched the museum’s exhibition since 2011.
A key focus of the museum is the operational display of historical machines, demonstrated by knowledgeable staff. Visitors gain insight into 19th- and early 20th-century production methods. In contrast, the welding robot system, which was in use at Volkswagen Sachsen GmbH Zwickau until 2012, illustrates the rapid technological developments of more recent times. In a separate exhibition area, visitors can follow the textile production process from yarn formation to finished products using functional textile machines, from the Crompton mule to sewing automats. A highlight is the historically restored machine hall featuring a steam engine from the Chemnitz machine factory Germania, dating from 1896, which is demonstrated publicly under live steam several times a year.
The exhibition themes and the unique atmosphere of the halls and rooms also offer diverse opportunities for special exhibitions, lectures, artistic programs, holiday activities, and projects for children and families.
The museum shop offers a selection of specialist literature, games, applied art, and similar items. The specialist library is available by prior arrangement.
The museum café and bistro “Suppenmaxe” provides catering for visitors.
Rooms are available for hire on request for events ranging from seminars to corporate functions.
The Chemnitz Museum of Industry is part of the Saxon Industrial Museum Association, which also includes three other museums and technical monuments.
In 2005, the Chemnitz Museum of Industry was first certified as a “Family-Friendly Institution” by TMGS. The museum is also part of the European Route of Industrial Heritage (ERIH) and a location on the Saxony Industrial Culture Route.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday – Friday | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday, Holidays | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Monday | Closed [Open on public holidays]
December 24, 25, 31, January 1 | Closed
Location:
The museum is located west of Chemnitz city center on Zwickauer Straße at Kappler Drehe and is accessible via A4 (Chemnitz-Nord exit) via Leipziger Straße (B95), and A72 (Chemnitz-Süd exit) via Neefestraße (B173) toward the city center/Zwickauer Straße.
Contact:
Industriemuseum Chemnitz
Zwickauer Straße 119
09112 Chemnitz
Phone: +49 371 3676-140
E-Mail
Registrations for guided tours - Phone: +49 371 3676-410