Glasmuseum im Freizeithaus

About the museum

Glassmaking in the Fichtelgebirge has been documented since 1340 and remained an important source of income in the region for centuries. The glass museum in Warmensteinach opened in 1980 and uses tools and products to show how the glassmaking craft developed.

One focus is glass bead making, which shaped production until about the mid-20th century; a full-size replica of a "Paterla oven" illustrates it. A second focus is the new start of glass production after the Second World War, which was driven forward with new methods mainly by Sudeten German expellees from the Gablonz area.

On display are many individual pieces, from fine Christmas tree ornaments to elegantly cut overlay vases and heavy lead crystal floor vases. Other topics include button making from cane glass, pressed and hollow glass production, how a brooch was made by a Gürtlermeister (master metalworker), and technical glass; a video explains some of the work steps.

Highlights

• Full-size replica of a "Paterla oven"
• Glass bead making as a focus
• Christmas tree ornaments, overlay vases and lead crystal
• New start of glass production after 1945 by Gablonz glassmakers
• Part of the Glass Hiking Trail in Warmensteinach

Founded

1980

Admission & discounts

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

• Stroller-friendly

According to the tourism portal, it is suitable for strollers and for children of all ages.

Getting there & parking

Drive from Bayreuth through Warmensteinach toward Oberwarmensteinach; the Freizeithaus is on the left at the edge of town.

Amenities & dining

The museum is located in the Freizeithaus Warmensteinach, which also houses the municipal library and a youth center.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit