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Nebra Sky Disc

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Nebra Sky Disc (Germany)

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The Nebra Sky Disc is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and is recognized as the world's oldest concrete depiction of astronomical phenomena. This bronze disc with gold applications dates back to the Early Bronze Age (c. 1600 BC) and was discovered in 1999 by looters on the Mittelberg hill near Nebra. It features representations of the sun (or full moon), a crescent moon, and 32 stars, including the Pleiades, which were used to determine planting and harvesting times. The disc proves that people 3,600 years ago possessed surprisingly complex knowledge of astronomical cycles and calendar keeping. Today, the original artifact is exhibited at the State Museum of Prehistory in Halle (Saale) and is part of the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. Near the discovery site, the 'Arche Nebra' visitor center was established, providing multimedia insights into the discovery, Bronze Age astronomy, and the artifact's mysterious history.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-10381317191914940
Rain mm473342356556766054475050

📋 Practical info

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Address
An der Arche 1, 06642 Nebra (Unstrut)
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Hours
Apr-Oct Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00, Nov-Mar Tue-Fri 10:00-16:00
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Entry
€9.50 adults, €5.00 children
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Website
himmelsscheibe-erleben.de
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Transit
Train to Wangen (Unstrut), then 15 min walk or shuttle
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Parking
Paid parking at Arche Nebra
♿
Accessibility
Visitor center Arche Nebra is fully barrier-free
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Photos
Forbidden in the planetarium, allowed in the exhibition without flash
⭐
Best time
Weekdays to see shows in the planetarium in peace
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Audio guide
German, English

Geography

Coordinates
51.34000, 11.54000

Facts

  • The Sky Disc has a diameter of approximately 32 centimeters and weighs about 2 kilograms.
  • It was buried as part of a hoard including two bronze swords, hatchets, and bracelets.
  • The Pleiades cluster on the disc helped synchronize the lunar and solar calendars.
  • Scientific analysis shows that the gold used for the icons originated from Cornwall, England.
  • The disc was modified several times over its lifespan before being buried around 1600 BC.
  • The artifact is listed in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register since 2013.

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Sights in the town Nebra Sky Disc (4)

St. Nikolaus

Church in Nebra, dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Stachelroder Tal und Lohtal

Nature reserve with stream valleys, meadows, and forests near Nebra.

Wildgehege Hermannseck

Wildlife enclosure featuring native animals like deer and wild boar.

🆓

St. Nikolai

Church in Nebra, named after Saint Nicholas.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Nebra Sky Disc?
It is the world's oldest concrete depiction of astronomical phenomena, dating back to the Bronze Age.
Where can the original disc be seen?
The original is exhibited at the State Museum of Prehistory in Halle (Saale).
What does the 'Arche Nebra' visitor center offer?
The center near the find site features planetarium shows and exhibitions about the history and significance of the disc.
Can the find site be visited?
Yes, an observation tower on the Mittelberg marks the exact find site and is reachable via a hiking trail.
When was the disc found?
It was discovered in 1999 by two looters on the Mittelberg near Nebra and later recovered by the police.
Nebra Sky Disc: where is it located?
Nebra Sky Disc is located in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
Nebra Sky Disc: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Nikolaus, Stachelroder Tal und Lohtal, Wildgehege Hermannseck.
Nebra Sky Disc: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Nebra Sky Disc: why is it worth visiting?
The Nebra Sky Disc is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and is recognized as the world's oldest concrete depiction of astronomical phenomena.
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