The Ethnographic Museum at the University of Zurich is a social anthropology science museum and the third oldest ethnographic museum in Switzerland. In research, teaching and public outreach activities, it focuses "On Human Skill" and shows the full range and diversity of human competences.
In exchange with members or descendants of those communities of origin who once invented, produced and used them, the objects in our collections are explored under topical questions and, if possible, researched collaboratively. The origin of these objects and the circumstances of their acquisition, as well as the colonial past of collections, are also addressed. And (self-) critical questions are asked about who actually talks about cultures and societies and how they are represented.
Thus, as a place of dialogue, the Ethnographic Museum at the University of Zurich encourages reflection on what it means to be human.
This text was translated by machine translation software and not by a human translator. It may contain translation errors.
Wheelchair access is provided throughout the museum. An elevator enables entry to the entrance area, the exhibitions in the foyer, the exhibits in the first and second floor as well as the backstage of the auditorium. Please contact the reception in order to use the the elevator. Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms are located in the basement, which can also be reached by elevator.
×
Our Events
Völkerkundemuseum Universität Zürich
Symphởny of Spices – Vietnamese Roots, Global Routes
This exhibition traces the roots and routes of star anise, cinnamon and cardamom from northern Vietnam, the spice triad of phở soup and mulled wine.
until 13.09.2026
Völkerkundemuseum Universität Zürich
Rumble in the Archive. Interventions on Postcolonial Zurich
Not a traditional exhibition, but a space in motion: invited residents from the arts, science and civil society are designing it collaboratively.
until 27.09.2026
Völkerkundemuseum Universität Zürich
The Stuart Hall Project
Film by John Akomfrah, United Kingdom, 2013, 99'; in English, with English subtitles.
12.03.2026 | 19:00
Völkerkundemuseum Universität Zürich
The Spring Rumble
The residents and the museum team invite you!
14.03.2026 | 16:00
Völkerkundemuseum Universität Zürich
Book Presentation
Join the editors and authors of "ABC Arts & Museums: Colonial History and Indigenous Voices".
08.04.2026 | 18:00
Völkerkundemuseum Universität Zürich
Epizentrum 1: This House Has Moved Me
Rumble resident and architect Salim Umar reading from his text-in-process.