When does the lecture on the Sky Disc of Nebra take place?

The lecture takes place on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

Where does the event take place?

The venue is the Historical Hall of the VHS Erlangen at Friedrichstr. 19, 91054 Erlangen.

What is the cost of participation?

Participation is free of charge.

Is registration required?

Yes, registration with the Adult Education Center Erlangen is required for participation.

Who leads the lecture?

The lecture will be led by Dr. Claudia Merthen.

What topics are covered in the lecture?

Topics covered include the creation of the Sky Disc around 4,000 years ago, its representation of the sky, archaeological classification, and the multiple changes in symbolism.

Discover the Sky Disc of Nebra and the Sky of the Bronze Age

Name: Fascination Archaeology: The Sky Disc of Nebra (Lecture)
Start: 2026-10-08T18:00:00+02:00
End: 2026-10-08T19:30:00+02:00
Location: vhs Erlangen - Historischer Saal

The Sky Disc of Nebra: A Look into the Bronze Age Sky

The Adult Education Center Erlangen invites you to a fascinating lecture about one of the most significant archaeological artifacts in Europe. The Sky Disc of Nebra was created around 4,000 years ago and is considered the oldest concrete representation of the sky. Dr. Claudia Merthen will introduce the history, design, and possible significance of this extraordinary bronze disc.

Archaeology Between Myth and Scientific Knowledge

The Sky Disc connects archaeology, astronomy, and art history in an impressive way. Golden celestial bodies appear on its patinated bronze surface, including the sun or full moon, a crescent moon, and numerous stars. Particularly striking are the seven stars of the Pleiades star cluster, which establish a direct reference to the observable order of the sky.

A Bronze Disc as an Image of the Cosmos

The central focus of the examination is the question of how the people of the Bronze Age interpreted the sky. The artifact has been altered and supplemented multiple times. These interventions provide insights into changing concepts of time, seasonal cycles, religious symbolism, and cosmic order. The aesthetic impact of the clearly arranged forms makes the disc a unique testament to early visual culture.

Fascination Archaeology with Dr. Claudia Merthen

The lecture is aimed at anyone interested in prehistory, archaeoastronomy, and the cultural significance of extraordinary finds. The understandable presentation combines scientific expertise with cultural education, making it clear why the Sky Disc of Nebra continues to captivate researchers and art enthusiasts today.

An Evening for Curious Discoverers

The event offers a concentrated art experience beyond classic exhibition halls. In the exhibition atmosphere of the Historical Hall, space is created for detailed observation, historical contextualization, and the question of how images of the sky shape our understanding of the world. The audience experiences archaeology as vibrant research and as an aesthetic experience.

Conclusion

The lecture promises a vivid journey into the Bronze Age and opens up new perspectives on one of the most famous astronomical artifacts in the world. Those who want to experience the connection of archaeology, art, science, and human history should not miss this free evening in Erlangen. Registration is required.