Galileo Galilei (1564–1642) is considered the founder of modern astronomy and classical physics. His astronomical discoveries contributed to a change in the worldview of the time. Based on the findings of Copernicus from the previous century, Galileo was the first to prove the heliocentric theory scientifically. The idea of planets orbiting the sun led to conflict with the Catholic Church, which tried to defend the geocentric view of the Bible. In 1633 Galileo was condemned by the Roman Inquisition and through torture and threats of death forced into abjuration.

The exhibition was conceived by Dr. Martin Börnchen, who served for 30 years as a teacher at Galileo High School in Hamm. Reading recommendations from the holdings of the libraries of Freie Universität are on display in the Information Center of the University Library. In addition, an exhibition guide (74 pages) is available at a cost of 5  € during the exhibition and later 9  €.

Time and Place

• January 9 − February 24, 2012; Monday − Friday, 9 a.m. − 8 p.m.
• University Library, Garystraße 39, 14195 Berlin (subway station: Thielplatz, U3)