The astrodome of the Lyceum in Eger

The Astrodome of the Lyceum in Eger crowns a historic building in Eger, Hungary, and today forms part of an observatory and science centre open to visitors.

About The Astrodome of the Lyceum in Eger

The Lyceum itself was founded by Archbishop Károly Eszterházy, with construction beginning in 1765 under architects Josef Ignaz Gerl and Jakab Fellner. The observatory dome was completed in 1778, with its astronomical equipment directed by the noted Jesuit astronomer Maximilian Hell.

History

The building has since evolved into the Observatory and Science Experience Center, formerly known as the Magic Tower, blending its historic astronomical role with hands-on science exhibits.

Telescopes & research

Visitors can see the Astronomy Museum on the sixth floor, which displays 18th-century astronomical equipment, alongside the interactive Magic Hall and a planetarium with regularly scheduled shows. On the ninth floor sits a camera obscura known as the “eye of Eger,” designed in 1776.

Location & getting there

The Lyceum stands in Eger, a historic town in northeastern Hungary.

Visiting The Astrodome of the Lyceum in Eger

The site is open to the public as part of the Observatory and Science Experience Center, with a panorama terrace and educational facilities; check current opening times and show schedules before visiting.

See your named star from here

An 18th-century dome once tended by a Jesuit astronomer, still fitted with historic instruments, is a striking place to imagine a star's coordinates. If you've named a star, its RA/Dec can be traced from historic sites like this - see the catalogue.