Self-guided podcast tour Jena The Lens of Progress

1 hour 55 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: German and 1 more

Discover how a mechanic, a mathematician, and a chemist turned a small German university town into the global epicenter of optical science. This captivating audio journey explores the holy trinity of Carl Zeiss, Ernst Abbe, and Otto Schott. You will not only discover the scientific breakthroughs that allowed humanity to see the microscopic and the cosmic, but also the radical social reforms that introduced the 8-hour day and changed the modern world of work. It is a story about glass, genius, and human dignity.
- 3.5 km self-guided tour with 7 stations over 115 min.
- Ideal for everyone interested in urbanism, infrastructure & innovation and urbanism & innovation
Excitingly told in a podcast style by experts and locals
- Suitable audio content, AI guide, and navigation via the app

What's Included

Verified facts woven into an engaging story
Interactive in-app guide for questions about the story and surroundings
Precise navigation between the stops
Immersive podcast-style audio featuring experts and locals

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

From Jena main station, take local public transport towards Ernst-Abbe-Platz. From the nearest stop, it is a few minutes' walk to Ernst-Abbe-Platz, Jena, Germany. Please check the current connection with the local transport association on the day of travel.

End point

From the Zeiss Planetarium Jena, walk to the nearest stop and take local public transport back to Jena main station. The starting point is Zeiss Planetarium Jena, Jena, Germany. Please check the current connection on the day of travel.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 55 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    The historical epicenter of the Carl Zeiss factory, representing the leap from a small workshop to a global industrial powerhouse.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    The historical repository of the scientific breakthroughs of Zeiss, Abbe, and Schott, which is currently undergoing extensive renovation.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    A breathtaking architectural monument dedicated to Ernst Abbe and financed by the citizens of Jena to honor his scientific and social contributions.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Funded by the Carl Zeiss Foundation, this people's house embodies the social reforms introduced by Abbe and offered education and culture to the workers.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5

    The historical residence of Otto Schott, the glass chemist, whose innovative materials completed the holy trinity of the Jena optical industry.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6

    The historic cemetery and final resting place of Carl Zeiss and Ernst Abbe, which offers a quiet place for reflection.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7

    The oldest continuously operating planetarium in the world, representing the ultimate cosmic application of Jena's optical revolution.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Red Thread

Tags

Private and Luxury
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Virtual Experiences
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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