Dragons - myth and reality
Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt - Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt(149 m über NN)
Dragons have inspired the human imagination for thousands of years. The fascinating mythical creatures are part of the repertoire of great stories - from ancient myths to contemporary series highlights. Dragon books, games and stuffed animals can even be found in many children‘s rooms. Depending on the cultural context, very different characteristics are attributed to dragons: In European cultures, they appear as menacing creatures that combine the characteristics of snakes and predators. In China, Korea and Japan, on the other hand, the dragon has mostly positive connotations and keeps nature in balance as a cosmic force.
While East Asian mythology primarily features divine sky dragons, in antiquity we encounter the dragon above all in the heroic deeds of Hercules. In Europe, however, the terrifying image of the fire-breathing beast only emerged in the art of the Middle Ages. Here, the dragon became a symbol of evil that was overcome by good - as can be seen in the iconography of the dragon slayer. Until modern times, dragons were still regarded as real animals, but this image only changed with the advent of modern natural science: dragons were excluded from the systematics of zoology and declared to be mythical creatures. Nevertheless, today they seem more alive than ever thanks to the current fantasy culture, such as the novels by J. R. R. Tolkien or the numerous other books, films, comics and games.
The interdisciplinary exhibition examines dragons from both an art historical and scientific perspective. It presents outstanding European and East Asian works of art from antiquity to the present day, as well as scientific exhibits such as rare documents from the history of science, fossils millions of years old and animal specimens. This diverse panorama is complemented by digital content, a storytelling track for children, a reading corner and drawing wall as well as atmospheric audiovisual installations. Young and old alike can discover how much reality there is in the millennia-old myth of the dragon.
The special exhibition is the result of a cooperation between the Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt, the Museum Schnütgen and the Museum of East Asian Art, Cologne.
The exhibition will then be on display from March 4 to June 6, 2027 at the Museum Schnütgen in cooperation with the Museum of East Asian Art in Cologne.
Nächste Termine
Fr.
2
Okt. 2026
11:00 Uhr bis 17.01.2027 18:00 Uhr
Besuche uns auch auf:
Weitere Tipps in der Nähe
"Weitere Tipps in der Nähe" überspringenca. 0,0 km entfernt
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
For the first time, the Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt is presenting the expressive works on paper by Hedwig Kruse-Geibel (Frankfurt/Main 1895-1991 Darmstadt). Her works revolve around her role as an artist, adored one, lover, mother or abandoned wife. Removed from her time and at the same time far ahead of it, she created a crossover of cultures, combining ancient mythology, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism and Islam. Her immensely dense paintings depict fantastic creatures, figures from mysticism and fairy tales. They live from the line and bright colors.
Do., 18.06.2026 bis So., 18.10.2026
ca. 0,0 km entfernt
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
The "Wildlife Photographer of the Year" exhibition presents breathtaking nature and animal photography from all over the world. Selected by a renowned jury, the images show the beauty, diversity and vulnerability of our planet.
Fr., 04.12.2026 bis So., 04.04.2027
ca. 0,0 km entfernt
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
In this major anniversary year for the Swiss-born artist Arnold Böcklin (1827–1901), Darmstadt marks the start of an exhibition series in the cities of Berlin, Leipzig, and Basel. As one of the outstanding painters of Symbolism, Arnold Böcklin had a decisive influence on German art in the second half of the 19th century. Fame, however, came to him only late in life.
Fr., 05.03.2027 bis So., 13.06.2027
ca. 0,0 km entfernt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Mittwoch | 11:00 - 20:00 |
| Donnerstag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Freitag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Samstag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Sonntag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
Closed on Monday, Good Friday, Christmas Eve and New Year‘s Eve.
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
The Hessian State Museum in Darmstadt is one of Germany’s major museums and brings together numerous diverse collections spanning the fields of art, culture, and natural history. Such a wide range of exhibition areas gives the HLMD a unique character among Europe’s leading museums.
ca. 0,0 km entfernt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | 09:30 - 18:00 |
| Mittwoch | 09:30 - 20:00 |
| Donnerstag | 09:30 - 18:00 |
| Freitag | 09:30 - 18:00 |
| Samstag | 09:30 - 18:00 |
| Sonntag | 09:30 - 18:00 |
Closed on Monday, Good Friday, Christmas Eve and New Year‘s Eve.
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
The museum café "Dialog & Genuss" is open to guests during the museum‘s opening hours. Regional, seasonal and sustainable - that is Ülkem Yel‘s focus. The passionate chef, master restaurateur and sommelier brings a lot of warmth to the café premises of the Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt with "Dialog &Genuss".
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
With the major project “Museum goes Street Art,” the Hessian State Museum in Darmstadt is continuing its exploration of graffiti as a now-recognized form of artistic expression, an exploration that began as part of the major exhibition “The Big Bang of Art: Modernity Meets Prehistory” in 2023.
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Herrngarten, am Landesmuseum
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Herrngarten, am Landesmuseum, 64283 Darmstadt
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Friedensplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
If you are looking for an unusual item for your home, an original gift or a special piece of jewellery, the traditional Darmstadt arts and crafts market is the place to be.
Sa., 14.08.2027 bis So., 15.08.2027
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Karolinenplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
The Darmstadt Spring Fair takes place from April 16 to 25 in downtown Darmstadt. With amusement rides, food stands, and the Dippe and market, the fair invites visitors to stroll, enjoy themselves, meet friends, and have fun.
Fr., 16.04.2027 bis So., 25.04.2027
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Karolinenplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
The flea market on Karolinenplatz is a tradition and a cult event. Here you can browse, haggle, talk to each other and stock up on exciting paraphernalia. The flea market usually takes place once a year and is limited exclusively to the Karolinenplatz area.
Sa., 18.09.2027 bis Sa., 18.09.2027
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | geschlossen |
| Mittwoch | geschlossen |
| Donnerstag | geschlossen |
| Freitag | geschlossen |
| Samstag | geschlossen |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Schleiermacherstr.8, 64283 Darmstadt
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Mittwoch | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Donnerstag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Freitag | 11:00 - 18:00 |
| Samstag | 10:00 - 16:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Schleiermacherstr.10, 64283 Darmstadt
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Karolinenplatz 4, 64289 Darmstadt
Eyes – Life, Love & Laughter … is like stepping through a crack in everyday life—into a world that tempts you to dream.
Do., 19.11.2026 bis Do., 31.12.2026
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Dienstag | geschlossen |
| Mittwoch | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Donnerstag | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Freitag | 11:00 - 01:00 |
| Samstag | 11:00 - 01:00 |
| Sonntag | 09:00 - 23:00 |
Schleiermacherstr.10-12, 64283 Darmstadt
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 11:00 - 22:30 |
| Dienstag | 11:00 - 22:30 |
| Mittwoch | 11:00 - 22:30 |
| Donnerstag | 11:00 - 22:30 |
| Freitag | 11:00 - 22:30 |
| Samstag | 11:00 - 22:30 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Friedensplatz 6, 64283 Darmstadt
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Friedensplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
Every clock tells its own story, for timepieces are far more than mere instruments for displaying hours and minutes. In this special exhibition, hands and dials become living witnesses to the past, offering insights into bygone eras, groundbreaking inventions, and moving historical moments.
Fr., 23.10.2026 bis So., 14.03.2027
ca. 0,1 km entfernt
Standort: Friedensplatz, Darmstadt
Das könnte Dir auch gefallen
"Das könnte Dir auch gefallen" überspringenOlbrichweg, 64289 Darmstadt
On the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the first exhibition of the Darmstadt artists‘ colony on the Mathildenhöhe, the Mathildenhöhe Institute Darmstadt is dedicating the show "A Step Ahead" to the question of how design, architecture and art shape social developments: Then and now.
So., 07.06.2026 bis So., 31.01.2027
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
In this major anniversary year for the Swiss-born artist Arnold Böcklin (1827–1901), Darmstadt marks the start of an exhibition series in the cities of Berlin, Leipzig, and Basel. As one of the outstanding painters of Symbolism, Arnold Böcklin had a decisive influence on German art in the second half of the 19th century. Fame, however, came to him only late in life.
Fr., 05.03.2027 bis So., 13.06.2027
Friedensplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
If you are looking for an unusual item for your home, an original gift or a special piece of jewellery, the traditional Darmstadt arts and crafts market is the place to be.
Sa., 14.08.2027 bis So., 15.08.2027
Karolinenplatz 3, 64289 Darmstadt
The diaries of Fabian von Massenbach, aide-de-camp to Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig, which were kept under lock and key for many years, paint an unusual picture of the period between 1896 and 1948. The exhibition focuses on Hesse’s transition to democracy from 1918 to 1948 and also examines the threats to that process. Massenbach provides a vivid account of this process, offering commentary and documentation that allow visitors to understand it through the direct experience of a contemporary witness.
Do., 22.10.2026 bis Fr., 05.03.2027
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
The exhibition "Multifaceted Insects" invites visitors to discover the astonishing diversity of the insect world. From iridescent beetles and delicate butterflies to fascinating ant colonies, it shows how important insects are for our ecosystems.
Do., 13.08.2026 bis So., 24.01.2027
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
For the first time, the Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt is presenting the expressive works on paper by Hedwig Kruse-Geibel (Frankfurt/Main 1895-1991 Darmstadt). Her works revolve around her role as an artist, adored one, lover, mother or abandoned wife. Removed from her time and at the same time far ahead of it, she created a crossover of cultures, combining ancient mythology, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism and Islam. Her immensely dense paintings depict fantastic creatures, figures from mysticism and fairy tales. They live from the line and bright colors.
Do., 18.06.2026 bis So., 18.10.2026
Steubenplatz 1, 64293 Darmstadt
The exhibition “We Hear Something and Can’t Find It” presents new works by Heide Nord and Anna Vovan at Studio West of the Kunsthalle Darmstadt.
So., 27.09.2026 bis So., 10.01.2027
Steubenplatz 1, 64293 Darmstadt
Following highly acclaimed exhibitions by Hilarius Hofstede (*1966) at the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, the Royal Museums of Art and History in Brussels, and the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature in Paris, the Kunsthalle Darmstadt is introducing the Amsterdam-based multimedia artist to a wider audience in Germany for the first time. The exhibition *Courant Van Gogh* brings together around 250 works on paper from Hofstede’s studio and from private collections. The presentation is complemented by site-specific installations that address issues of vulnerability, care, and psychological disposition.
So., 27.09.2026 bis So., 10.01.2027
Roßdörfer Straße 108, 64409 Messel
What did southern Hesse look like millions of years ago? Where forests, towns and fields lie today, mighty mountains once towered into the sky and volcanoes seethed.
Fr., 27.03.2026 bis So., 07.02.2027
Luisenstraße 16, 64283 Darmstadt
In various forms, the theme of “LIGHT” has long defined the artistic work of Margareta Hesse. It is a factor that transforms the image in her semitransparent polyester paintings, the “Transluziden,” which she has been creating since 1999. Since 2008, she has also been working with light itself—specifically, red laser light.
Fr., 14.08.2026 bis Sa., 24.10.2026
Friedensplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
Every clock tells its own story, for timepieces are far more than mere instruments for displaying hours and minutes. In this special exhibition, hands and dials become living witnesses to the past, offering insights into bygone eras, groundbreaking inventions, and moving historical moments.
Fr., 23.10.2026 bis So., 14.03.2027
Friedensplatz 1, 64283 Darmstadt
The "Wildlife Photographer of the Year" exhibition presents breathtaking nature and animal photography from all over the world. Selected by a renowned jury, the images show the beauty, diversity and vulnerability of our planet.
Fr., 04.12.2026 bis So., 04.04.2027
Steubenplatz 1, 64293 Darmstadt
In the year of his 90th birthday, Wolfgang Klee presents a selection from his late work, consisting of drawings and three-dimensional objects. In the tradition of “Abject Art,” he uses the offensive to expose social power structures and existential cycles of life. Exhibition at Studio Ost of the Kunsthalle Darmstadt.
So., 27.09.2026 bis So., 15.11.2026
With the theme "Design for Democracy. Atmospheres for a better life", the Frankfurt Rhine-Main region holds the title of World Design Capital 2026.
Do., 01.01.2026 bis Do., 31.12.2026
Hochschulstraße 1, 64289 Darmstadt
The Kunstforum der TU Darmstadt is showing the internationally successful photographer Corina Gertz, who visually establishes a connection to diversity, inclusion and democracy as basic conditions for a "better life". Corina Gertz photographs women in traditional dress all over the world. Her focus is on the quieter side of the portrait, the back view. The individual remains hidden, only the clothing carries information.
So., 01.11.2026 bis So., 28.02.2027
Karolinenplatz 4, 64289 Darmstadt
Eyes – Life, Love & Laughter … is like stepping through a crack in everyday life—into a world that tempts you to dream.
Do., 19.11.2026 bis Do., 31.12.2026
Karolinenplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
The Darmstadt Spring Fair takes place from April 16 to 25 in downtown Darmstadt. With amusement rides, food stands, and the Dippe and market, the fair invites visitors to stroll, enjoy themselves, meet friends, and have fun.
Fr., 16.04.2027 bis So., 25.04.2027
Marktplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
From 16. November to 23. December 2026, Darmstadt will once again offer the best in culinary delights, Christmas shopping and a festive atmosphere!
Mo., 16.11.2026 bis Mi., 23.12.2026
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | geschlossen |
| Mittwoch | 08:00 - 14:00 |
| Donnerstag | geschlossen |
| Freitag | 08:00 - 14:00 |
| Samstag | 08:00 - 14:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Marktplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
Darmstadt‘s weekly market is held on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays between the Residence Palace and the Old Town Hall on Darmstadt‘s market square.
Sa., 17.10.2026 bis Sa., 17.10.2026 und weitere
Karolinenplatz, 64283 Darmstadt
The flea market on Karolinenplatz is a tradition and a cult event. Here you can browse, haggle, talk to each other and stock up on exciting paraphernalia. The flea market usually takes place once a year and is limited exclusively to the Karolinenplatz area.
Sa., 18.09.2027 bis Sa., 18.09.2027
Alsfelder Straße, Messplatz, 64289 Darmstadt
Heiner-Wiesn 2026 - The Hessian Oktoberfest right in the heart of Darmstadt!
Fr., 23.10.2026 bis Sa., 24.10.2026 und weitere
In Darmstadt, the "Kerb" is traditionally celebrated with great passion - with parades, live music, fairground rides and regional specialties. The Kirchweih events offer an opportunity for socializing and are an integral part of cultural life in the region.
Fr., 07.08.2026 bis Di., 03.11.2026
Olbrichweg, 64289 Darmstadt
Discover art and then indulge: Starting in October, there will be three new offerings centered around the exhibition “A Step Ahead – 125 Years of Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt” that combine a visit to the exhibition with culinary delights at the Café Restaurant Mathildenhöhe.
Mi., 21.10.2026 bis Fr., 22.01.2027
Kasionstraße 3, 64293 Darmstadt
In his exhibition at the Kunst Archiv Darmstadt, Simon Gilmer takes an artistic approach to the architecture of the building and the conditions of the archive rooms.
Fr., 18.09.2026 bis Do., 31.12.2026
verschiedene Betriebe in der Region, 64283 Darmstadt
“Visiting Local Businesses – Hospitality Industry Open House Days” is a joint initiative of the Darmstadt Rhine-Main-Neckar Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) and DEHOGA Hessen. In October 2026, restaurants and lodging establishments in southern Hesse will open their doors and offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into their operations.
Do., 01.10.2026 bis Sa., 31.10.2026
Am Kavalleriesand 5, 64295 Darmstadt
ipartment Darmstadt offers 180 modern, fully furnished apartments with private kitchens, workspaces, and Wi-Fi for stays ranging from one night to several months. ipartment thus provides a flexible alternative to traditional hotels, offering more space, privacy, and the feeling of being at home.
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 09:00 - 18:00 |
| Dienstag | 09:00 - 23:00 |
| Mittwoch | 09:00 - 23:00 |
| Donnerstag | 09:00 - 23:00 |
| Freitag | 09:00 - 00:00 |
| Samstag | 09:00 - 00:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Marktplatz 2, 64283 Darmstadt
The rooftop restaurant "obendrüber" on top of the fashionstore HENSCHEL serves california inspired cuisine.
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | geschlossen |
| Mittwoch | geschlossen |
| Donnerstag | geschlossen |
| Freitag | geschlossen |
| Samstag | geschlossen |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Bismarkstr.16, 64293 Darmstadt
jetzt geöffnet
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 09:30 - 23:30 |
| Dienstag | 09:30 - 23:30 |
| Mittwoch | 09:30 - 23:30 |
| Donnerstag | 09:30 - 00:00 |
| Freitag | 09:30 - 00:00 |
| Samstag | 09:00 - 00:00 |
| Sonntag | 09:00 - 23:00 |
Riegerplatz 3, 64289 Darmstadt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Dienstag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Mittwoch | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Donnerstag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Freitag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Samstag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Luisenplatz 5, 64283 Darmstadt
Flughafenstr. 2, 64347 Griesheim
The ACHAT Comfort Darmstadt/Griesheim, a Comfort Class hotel, is ideal for business trips or private travel - even if you have longer business in the Rhine-Main area, as 72 of the 101 rooms are equipped with kitchenettes for long-term stays.
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | 17:00 - 01:00 |
| Mittwoch | 17:00 - 01:00 |
| Donnerstag | 17:00 - 01:00 |
| Freitag | 17:00 - 01:00 |
| Samstag | 17:00 - 01:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Open on holidays from 12pm - 3pm and 5pm - 1am
Heinheimer Str.38, 64289 Darmstadt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 08:30 - 18:30 |
| Dienstag | 08:30 - 18:30 |
| Mittwoch | 08:30 - 18:30 |
| Donnerstag | 08:30 - 18:30 |
| Freitag | 08:30 - 18:30 |
| Samstag | 09:00 - 20:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Wilhelminenstr.13, 64283 Darmstadt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Dienstag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Mittwoch | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Donnerstag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Freitag | 10:00 - 20:00 |
| Samstag | 10:00 - 19:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Grafenstr.22, 64283 Darmstadt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | geschlossen |
| Dienstag | 15:00 - 22:00 |
| Mittwoch | geschlossen |
| Donnerstag | 15:00 - 22:00 |
| Freitag | 15:00 - 23:59 |
| Samstag | 11:00 - 23:59 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Friedensplatz 4, 64283 Darmstadt
The Allerweil Darmstadt on Friedensplatz is a modern wine and beer bar with a casual atmosphere.
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 08:00 - 20:00 |
| Dienstag | 08:00 - 20:00 |
| Mittwoch | 08:00 - 20:00 |
| Donnerstag | 08:00 - 20:00 |
| Freitag | 08:00 - 20:00 |
| Samstag | 08:00 - 20:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Grafenstr.41, 64283 Darmstadt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 07:00 - 19:00 |
| Dienstag | 07:00 - 19:00 |
| Mittwoch | 07:00 - 19:00 |
| Donnerstag | 07:00 - 19:00 |
| Freitag | 07:00 - 19:00 |
| Samstag | geschlossen |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Mahatma-Gandhi-Str.7, 64295 Darmstadt
geschlossen
| Wochentag | Öffnungszeiten |
|---|---|
| Montag | 09:00 - 19:00 |
| Dienstag | 09:00 - 19:00 |
| Mittwoch | 09:00 - 19:00 |
| Donnerstag | 09:00 - 19:00 |
| Freitag | 09:00 - 19:00 |
| Samstag | 09:00 - 18:00 |
| Sonntag | geschlossen |
Rheinstraße 8, 64283 Darmstadt
Bürozeiten: Mo-Fr 09:00 - 12:00 Uhr, Mi 13:00 - 16:00 Uhr
Rodensteinweg 2, 64293 Darmstadt
German