Flashlight Tours Illuminate Ancient Egyptian Art in Hildesheim's RPM Museum

The Roemer- und Pelizaeus-Museum (RPM) in Hildesheim is drawing visitors with an unusual experience: guided flashlight tours through its Egyptian collection. While the city's pedestrian zone struggles, the museum continues to flourish, offering after-hours events like yoga and themed dinners. Now, its latest attraction lets guests explore ancient artifacts in near darkness, each armed with their own torch.

The tour starts on a grand staircase inside the museum's modern pyramid-shaped wing. As daylight fades, participants gather in the nearly empty foyer, their flashlights the only source of illumination. The overhead lights remain off, casting a dramatic glow on artifacts tied to the Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife.

Highlights include a preserved crocodile mummy and a decorated wrapping that once held human remains. The route eventually connects to the 'World Heritage Trail', a granite-paved path lit by soft lighting. By the time dawn breaks, the darkness lifts, and the tour concludes.

This new offering follows a burglary in early November 2023, which prompted the museum to split its permanent exhibition into two sections. The second part's opening was delayed while specialised security display cases were installed—a requirement after insurers limited coverage following the break-in.

The flashlight tours add another layer to the RPM's growing appeal. With enhanced security measures now in place, the museum balances innovation with protection for its prized collections. Meanwhile, its mix of evening events continues to attract visitors, even as the surrounding pedestrian zone faces challenges.