Fernmeldemuseum Aachen

About the museum

When telecommunications networks in Germany were digitised from the 1970s onwards, analogue switching technology gradually disappeared from service. To preserve this technology, the Verein der Förderer des Fernmeldemuseums Aachen was founded in June 1996. Volunteers, both from active service and from retirement, rebuilt the systems in a Deutsche Telekom building at Gut Wolf, financed in part by the members' contributions.

After reunification, equipment was added that had been dismantled in the former GDR and had long since ceased to exist in the West; it substantially enriches the Aachen holdings.

On roughly 360 square metres, all systems are set up in their original form and fully functional. Each subject area (local and trunk switching, transmission, line, radio and telegraph technology, as well as the fault clearance service) has its own alcove, up to 8.50 metres long. Across the rooms, an overhead line, a cable trench and a microwave radio link have been recreated. Display cases show telephones and other terminal equipment, components, tools and measuring instruments. The support association maintains the systems and guides visitors through the museum.

Highlights

• Working local exchanges with rotary-hunting selector and EMD technology
• Overhead line, cable trench and microwave radio link in the exhibition room
• Telecommunications technology from the former GDR
• Telegraph technology and fault clearance service
• Display case collection of historic telephones and terminal equipment

Founded

1997

Operated by

Verein der Förderer des Fernmeldemuseums Aachen e.V.

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission and parking are free of charge.

Accessibility

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

The building is accessible without barriers via entrance 6 (right-hand side); please announce your visit in advance.

Kids & families

• Hands-on stations

The equipment may be touched and switched on.

Getting there & parking

The museum is housed in a building of Deutsche Telekom AG; the grounds are freely accessible.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit