The Enduring Allure of Baron Munchausen: A Zurich Exhibition Explores Fact, Fiction, and the Power of Storytelling

Zurich, Switzerland – February 22, 2026 – The Strauhof Literature Museum in Zurich is currently hosting an exhibition dedicated to the captivating world of Baron Hieronymus Carl Friedrich Freiherr von Münchhausen, the 18th-century nobleman whose fantastical tales have resonated through centuries. The exhibition, running from February 20th to April 6th, 2026, delves into the origins of the “Münchausen phenomenon,” exploring the line between truth and fabrication, imagination and deception.

From Historical Figure to Literary Legend

Baron Münchhausen (1720-1797) was a real person who served in the Russian army and recounted his experiences during his travels and in the Russo-Ottoman War. But, it was Rudolf Erich Raspe, a guest at the Baron’s estate, who first popularized his stories. Raspe, fleeing accusations of theft from Kassel, published an English version of Münchhausen’s adventures in 1785. This publication sparked a literary sensation, further amplified by a German translation enriched with new, improbable tales by Gottfried August Bürger.

Bernhard Wiebel’s Extensive Collection

The Zurich exhibition draws heavily from the private Münchausen Library assembled by Bernhard Wiebel, an art historian and passionate collector of all things Münchausiana. Wiebel’s collection, amassed over years of research, provides a comprehensive look at the Baron’s impact on literature, art, and culture. The exhibition showcases a wide range of materials, including original illustrations, early editions of the stories, and adaptations for children.

Exploring Themes of Truth and Lies

The exhibition examines how Münchhausen’s stories have evolved over time, appearing in numerous languages – including American, German, French, Dutch, Hebrew, Thai, and even Esperanto – and inspiring countless adaptations. The exhibition also touches upon the psychological phenomenon known as “Münchausen syndrome,” highlighting the complex relationship between deception and self-perception.

Interactive Exhibits and Historical Context

Visitors to the Strauhof can explore large-format graphics by Martin Disteli, illustrating iconic scenes from Münchhausen’s adventures, such as being pulled from a swamp by his own pigtail and riding a cannonball. A dedicated children’s corner features picture books, reading materials, and card games, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the stories to young audiences. Interactive displays with rotating panels allow visitors to immerse themselves in the Baron’s fantastical world, while a cinema showcases a compilation of films and videos inspired by the Münchausen legend.

A Timeless Reflection on Storytelling

The exhibition draws parallels between Münchhausen’s penchant for exaggeration and contemporary issues of fake news and propaganda. As the Baron himself famously quipped, “Don’t believe everything that is said,” a sentiment that resonates strongly in today’s world. The exhibition ultimately invites visitors to contemplate the power of storytelling, the nature of truth, and the enduring allure of a good lie.

Exhibition Details

• Dates: February 20th – April 6th, 2026
• Location: Strauhof Literature Museum, Zurich

A notable publication, Rudolf Erich Raspe: Munchausen’s Adventures, translated by Stefan Howald and edited with commentary by Howald and Wiebel, is currently out of print, with a reprint highly desirable.