(photo Roger Busschots)
The ‘Sterrewacht Leiden’ is the oldest University observatory in the world, originating from 1633. In 1861 it moved to a specificcally designed building. In the 70’s of the previous century it moved again, now to a location more suitable for modern research. In 2011 the ‘Oude Sterrewacht’ has been restored and made suitable as lectures hall for the Law faculty of the Leiden University.
In the basement a visitors centre refers back to the history of the building as observatory. The world famous ‘Sterrewacht’ is accountable for many great discoveries and still is one of the leading research teams in astronomy in the world, involved in many highly innovative explorations of outer space. The visitors are introduced to important steps in the history of the observatory and exciting future plans to come.
Roger Busschots from Infofilm / Museummedia developed the concept and design for the visitors centre. Berend van der Lans from Architectureplus teamed up with Roger for design assistance, budgeting and project management.
Visitors centre ‘Oude Sterrewacht Leiden’ can be visited via the Hortus Botanicus in Leiden.
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2011 // client: Leiden University, Sterrewacht // concept and design: Roger Busschots, Infofilm / Museummedia
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(photo Roger Busschots)
