"Shuffle" exhibition? When asked what this is all about, the host and curator of the Pantheon Basel, Stephan Musfeld, admits that he has come up with something new. Instead of focusing on just one theme as before, he wants to be inspired more by chance in future - and create interesting exhibitions that cover a broader range. The first "Shuffle" exhibition therefore offers the diversity of four exhibitions.
Racing car manufacturer Lotus
The two special exhibitions offer a great introduction to the world of the most important racing car designers. The first deals with the vehicles of the Lotus racing team. This was founded by the ingenious inventor and engineer Colin Chapman in Norfolk in 1948. He invented the so-called monocoque body and was also the first designer to create a wedge-shaped body with side radiators.
Eleven exceptional vehicles from the Lotus brand are on display in the Pantheon: from gems from the early days of motorsport history in the 1950s to the Lotus Elise built in 2000.
Special Jaguar exhibition
Founded in the early 1920s by William Lyons in the English coastal town of Blackpool under the name "Swallow Sidecar Company", the company operated under the brand name "Jaguar" from 1945. The sports saloons, which were characterized by their sporty and elegant lines, were considered comparatively inexpensive at the time and from 1951 acted as purveyor to the British royal family.
Eleven Jaguar vehicles are on display in the Pantheon, from the pre-war SS100 racing car, the C Type and the E Type Semi Lightweight to the Formula 1 car from the year 2000.
Inspiring permanent exhibitions
In addition to the two special sports car exhibitions, the Pantheon is now home to the inspiring bicycle collection of the former Swiss Sports Museum. It impressively demonstrates what can be created from two wheels, a frame, a saddle and handlebars. You can admire everything from the first balance bike to penny-farthings, racing bikes and carbon bikes.
The second permanent exhibition is dedicated to children's vehicles. Since time immemorial, a beautiful vehicle has not only put a smile on the lips of adults, but also made children's eyes light up. The Pantheon features exhibits with two, three and four wheels as well as pedal cars - and even the first electric cars for children.
Well worth a visit
In addition to the aforementioned special and permanent exhibitions, which will run until April 14, 2024, the Pantheon in Muttenz also houses vehicles from all eras of mobility, from the seemingly bizarre, wooden means of transportation from the early days of the car to the racing car of modern times.
The Pantheon is open from 10:00 to 17:00 during the week and from 10:00 to 16:30 at weekends and on public holidays.
Further information can be found on the Pantheon website.
