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Body Worlds Berlin can continue displaying dead bodies

September 10, 2018

An exhibition of preserved human bodies can remain open in Berlin, a German court confirmed on Monday, ending a years-long legal battle between creator Dr Gunther von Hagens and the local council.

https://p.dw.com/p/34cMF
BdT mit Deutschlandbezug - Ausstellung "Körperwelten"
Image: Imago/Hartenfelser

The exhibit at Berlin's central Alexanderplatz square shows bodies that have been preserved through a method known as plastination, which drains them of fluids before replacing them with silicone. The process allows the skinned bodies of humans and animals to be exhibited in life-like poses.

"The museum can continue to exist," Rurik von Hagens, the creator's son, told. A spokesman for the court also confirmed the settlement, saying the museum had agreed to announce the arrival of new exhibits two weeks in advance to give the council Berlin-Mitte time to determine the origin of the specimens.

Pressekonferenz zur Eröffnung der Ausstellung Körperwelten in Bochum
Under the table, a poker player hands over a card with his foot - a scene from the "Body Worlds"Image: picture-alliance/Sport Moments/M. Hommes

Gunther von Hagens' touring exhibition of preserved human bodies, "Köperwelten" or "Body Worlds," has been displayed in different locations around Germany and the world since 1996.

is/ks (dpa)
 

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Gunther von Hagens Körperwelten Archiv 14.05.2014 in Hamburg

Controversial human Body Worlds museum to open in Berlin

Controversial human Body Worlds museum to open in Berlin

A Berlin court has ruled that anatomist Gunther von Hagens will be allowed to open a museum displaying preserved human bodies and body parts. The museum is set to open in January 2015. (19.12.2014)
December 19, 2014