Egypt A temple of animals - foreward to the sense and aim of an exhibition Aegypten Ein Tempel der Tiere - Vorbericht zu Sinn und Ziel einer Aisstellung

Vaelske, Veit.

Ancient Egypt with its necropoleis and temple gardens - dedicated to non-human creatures - is one of the most prominent examples of using animals as commentators of life. Berlin in contrast is the most appropriate place to visualise this issue. This city is not only equipped with famous museums and zoological gardens but also the town's story itself offers a special connection between natural science and humanities. The unique " Straussenhaus" of Berlin -built in Egyptian style in 1901 but destroyed during WW II - affiliates these both scientific fields that shall be demonstrated by the exhibition "Agypten. Ein Tempel der Tiere" inside the Zoo from July till September 2006. Wandering throughout the park and examining archaeological artefacts and information boards visitors will be able to observe animals from the Egyptian point of view. They will understand the reflection of animals figures and habits in Egyptian culture and religion four thousands years before our time.