The museum complex is situated on the site of the former Rosenthal factory, which was the largest porcelain producer in the world at its peak.
The site features one of the few remaining 'intermittent kilns' (round kilns) that can still be viewed from the inside.
It holds the most extensive collection of technical and industrial porcelain documentation in Europe.
The museum is a designated anchor point on the European Route of Industrial Heritage (ERIH).
It houses the world's largest collection of ceramics depicting historical trade and manufacturing processes.
Porzellanikon is one of the world's largest museums dedicated to porcelain, housed in a former Rosenthal factory in Selb. The site covers over 10,000 square meters of exhibition space across three main locations, showcasing the historical production of industrial and artistic ceramics. Visitors can explore the original factory architecture, including the preserved kiln halls and historical manufacturing machinery. The museum displays a comprehensive collection of European porcelain, spanning from the 18th century to contemporary industrial design. It highlights the technological evolution of porcelain manufacturing, specifically the shift from manual labor to mass production. Special exhibitions frequently feature experimental porcelain art and design collaborations. The facility serves as an anchor point for the European Route of Industrial Heritage. Its location in the 'Porcelain Town' of Selb underscores the region's historical importance as a center of the German ceramics industry.
The interior of the preserved historic round kiln, which offers a unique perspective on industrial architecture.
Allow extra time to walk between the different sections of the extensive factory complex.
Check the museum's calendar for live demonstration workshops where you can see ceramic forming techniques.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site occupies a large industrial footprint with significant floor space.
Do not attempt to see the entire exhibition in under two hours, as the scale of the historical factory buildings is deceptive.
Closed on Mondays.
