Audioversum

About the museum

The idea for the Audioversum arose in 2009: Eckhard Schulz, then managing director of MED-EL Germany, developed an exhibition concept together with the Ars Electronica Center in Linz that was intended to make the sense of hearing tangible in a playful yet scientifically sound way. The project was supported by MED-EL's chief Ingeborg Hochmair; the Innsbruck company manufactures implantable hearing systems and still funds the museum today.

In January 2013 the science center opened on Wilhelm-Greil-Straße with the permanent exhibition "Adventure Hearing" (Abenteuer Hören), complemented by the company exhibition "MED-EL World" on the history of hearing implants. A renovation in 2017 enlarged the building to around 1,500 square metres, of which about 1,200 square metres are exhibition space, and created room for changing themed exhibitions, for example on the brain and learning.

Interactive stations are at the heart of the museum: visitors travel virtually through the ear, locate birdsong via headphones or make oversized sensory cells ring. The Sound Gallery presents sound installations, often in collaboration with artists and authors. One of the museum's concerns is raising awareness of hearing damage and its prevention, especially among children and young people; to this end it offers an extensive school and workshop programme.

Highlights

• Virtual 3D journey through the human ear
• Binaural game: locate birds by hearing alone
• Oversized hair cells that produce sounds when touched
• Tiptoi rally with quiz questions for all ages
• Sound Gallery with changing sound installations
• MED-EL World on the development of hearing implants

Permanent exhibitions

• Abenteuer Hören – Main exhibition with 18 interactive stations on how hearing works, from a 3D flight through the ear to a game with spatial hearing.
• MED-EL World – Company exhibition on the development of hearing implants with installations, videos and historical documents.
• Sound-Gallery – Space for sound and audio installations accompanied by artworks and changing regularly.

Founded

2013

Operated by

MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geräte Gesellschaft m.b.H.

Director

Julia Sparber-Ablinger

Admission & discounts

The ticket is valid for main and special exhibitions; guided tours are not included. Free admission with the Freizeitticket Tirol (three admissions per season), the Innsbruck Card (once during the booked period) and the Kulturpass Tirol. Vouchers are available online.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Accessible for people with mobility and hearing impairments; all levels can be reached without steps. An induction loop system is available – please let us know when registering. Dogs are not allowed, except assistance dogs.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations
• Kids’ birthday parties

Many hands-on stations about hearing. The Tiptoi rally guides children through the main exhibition with the digital pen and age-appropriate quiz questions. Children's birthday parties with a discovery tour through "Adventure Hearing". Children under 15 only when accompanied by an adult.

Getting there & parking

By car: take the Innsbruck-Mitte motorway exit, then follow signs toward the Hauptbahnhof.

Amenities & dining

• Restaurant: not available
• Museum shop

Museum shop "Hör-Bar" with audible products, books and toys; coffee and seating for a break are also available there.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Corporate events

Up to 40 guests.

The Sound Gallery can be rented for events and seminars (40 people seated, projector, screen, lectern, surround sound system); with a guided tour on request. Bookable Monday to Friday 8 am–5 pm or by arrangement.

Plan your visit