International Museum Day — Historical Museum of the Palatinate

International Museum Day — A Global Event

International Museum Day was launched in 1977 by the International Council of Museums (ICOM). Since then, it has been celebrated annually on the third Sunday in May in over 150 countries. The aim of the day is to emphasize the cultural and social significance of museums, reach new visitor groups, and make the diversity of museum work visible. In 2026, the day falls on May 17.

Historical Museum of the Palatinate

The Historical Museum of the Palatinate Speyer is one of the most important cultural history museums in Southern Germany. Its collection ranges from the Stone Age and Roman times (numerous pieces from Roman Speyer/Noviomagus) to the 20th century. Highlights of the collection include the Bronze Age Kreuzwertheim Collection, the Speyer Gold Hat (a Bronze Age cult object), and the Cathedral Treasury Cabinet with the royal tombs from the cathedral.

Special Exhibition “Superheroes”

In the special exhibition area in 2026, the exhibition “Superheroes” is running — an extensive show on the history of comic superheroes. Over 350 objects are on display: original drawings by great comic artists (Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, Frank Miller), first editions of legendary Marvel and DC comics, covers, sketches, storyboards. In addition, there are props and original costumes from Hollywood film adaptations — an Iron Man suit, a Batman cape, Wonder Woman's lasso. The exhibition runs until October 18, 2026, and is one of the museum's most successful shows.

Special Program on Museum Day

On Museum Day, May 17, 2026, special events will complement regular operations. Guided tours on various themes (permanent exhibition, “Superheroes” special exhibition, Cathedral Treasury Cabinet), workshops for children and families (comic drawing, cosplay crafting for the superhero exhibition), lectures on current research topics, and an expanded gastronomic offer characterize the day. Admission is traditionally reduced or free for certain programs on this day.

Central Location on Cathedral Square

The museum is located on Cathedral Square, directly next to the Imperial Cathedral — an ideal location for combining a museum visit with a stroll through Speyer's historic old town. Many visitors combine Museum Day with an exploration of the Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Jewish Courtyard (UNESCO World Heritage Site).