Ambras Castle Unveils the Mysteries of Coral in Stunning New Exhibition

A new exhibition at Ambras Castle explores the fascinating history and ecological importance of corals. Titled The Blood of Medusa: The Corals of Ambras Castle, it delves into their classification, cultural significance, and the threats they face today. In the 18th century, Carl Linnaeus classified corals as animals, challenging earlier beliefs. Historically, they have been revered as protective talismans and symbols of Christ’s blood in Christianity. Archduke Ferdinand II (1529–1595) amassed nearly a hundred coral objects, forming one of the world’s most remarkable collections.

The exhibition displays around 50 pieces from the Ambras holdings, alongside selected loans. It merges natural specimens with art, featuring Ferdinand II’s ornate coral cabinets. Visitors can explore the question: What are corals, really? while learning about their role in Earth’s most vital ecosystems.

The show also highlights urgent modern concerns. Rising sea temperatures and coral bleaching are causing global reef die-offs, threatening these ecosystems with extinction. The exhibition runs daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. until 31 October 2026. It combines historical artefacts with contemporary science to reveal the beauty and fragility of coral reefs. The event underscores their ecological importance and the need for protection.