Austria, April 4, 2012
From the description of the exhibition: “The Byzantine Empire has been brought back to life at the Schallaburg Castle, more than 550 years after its downfall. The exhibition spotlights important aspects of Byzantine culture and society. The elaborate works of art that emerged from the workshops of the empire are on display for the first time in Austria, showing the gold, silk, and ivory crafting techniques that have remained unmatched over the centuries. However, not only the splendor of the “Golden Byzantium” is on exhibit, but also the everyday living habits of its people.”
“In addition to a number of exquisite and unique exhibition pieces, the Byzantine empire is brought back to life in modern 3d-reconstructions, audio booths, and interactive installations. Short films give visitors a glimpse over the shoulder of researchers as they explore Byzantine culture. A special feature of the exhibition is the full-scale reconstruction of an ancient stone saw in the arcaded court of the Schallaburg.”
According to the official leaflet, “the exhibition focuses on Byzantium’s cultural exchange and mutual influence arising from contact to the Steppe peoples, the empires of the Orient, and also to Western Europe.”
Interactive areas on special exhibition topics allow children and adolescents to experience the story of Byzantium playfully. Young visitors can discover fascinating details about the Empire. There will also be puzzle books for school students who wish to “reshape” Byzantium.
(Find out more at the website of the museum: www.schallaburg.at)