Humboldt today – celebrating the anniversary of a discoverer and networker

Videos & Statements

For me, Humboldt today means ...

How modern and how relevant is Alexander von Humboldt today, 250 years after his birth? Personal answers, stories and ideas.

Events

Exhibition: An expedition to Brazil

The spectacular travels of Alexander von Humboldt inspired others to embark on similar journeys of discovery. A new exhibition has now opened in Berlin highlighting the expedition undertaken by the two scientists, Spix and Martius.

Portrait

The Humboldt Code

He was an obsessive networker, a daredevil and a marketing genius. The reports on his travels and adventures earned him star status. Today, on the 250th anniversary of his birth, the Prussian scholar is still revered. On the secret of an eternal idol.

Quotes

If Humboldt were on Twitter today

He liked to formulate succinct sentences and deliver punch lines. He took a stand against slavery, colonialism and environmental destruction. What stance would Humboldt take on current issues? We present his quotes in a new light.

Expedition

Humboldt’s Travels

Alexander von Humboldt left the shores of Europe for the first time in 1799. His country of embarkation was Spain and his destination the ‘New World’. Insights into Humboldt’s great American voyage from 1799 to 1804.

Picture gallery

Happy Birthday, Alex!

Our network and our staff honour the memory of the man after whom our foundation is named.

Interview

“Everybody’s star”

Whether as a discoverer, Romantic, Atlanticist, climate prophet or working class hero: there isn’t just one Humboldt, but lots of them. Historian of science, Nicolaas A. Rupke, has investigated how the various images of Humboldt have come about.

New Year reception

Alexander von Humboldt Foundation commemorates the great scientist

“Inquisitive, adventurous, open-minded, forthright”: On January 17th around 400 guests from science, politics and business marked the 250th anniversary of Alexander von Humboldt’s birth celebrated the values of a staunch citizen of the world.

Interview

“Humboldt had this ruthlessness towards himself”

Researcher, globetrotter, networker and discoverer – Alexander von Humboldt was a real high-flyer. But who was Alexander, the private person? An interview with journalist and author Dorothee Nolte about the life and loves of an immortal genius.

Anniversary year 2019

Humboldt commemorations around the world

Globetrotter and scientist Alexander von Humboldt was born 250 years ago. To mark the anniversary, numerous ceremonies, conferences, lectures, projects and other activities will be taking place throughout 2019. Most of these will be held in Germany, but the countries of South America visited by Humboldt also have events planned, most notably Peru.