SCIENCE UP THE WORLD 15TH INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CONGRESS OF MEDICAL SCIENCES JUNE 3RD - 6TH 2008

Groningen: Culture

Groninger Museum
When you visit the Groninger Museum for the first time, it is likely you will see more of the museum itself than the collections: this museum is a work of art in itself. Designed by the Italian Alessandro Mendini, it includes partial designs by Michelle De Lucchi, Philippe Starck, and Coop Himmelb(l)au. From the roof construction to the restroom door handle and from stairwell to windows, it is actually one large exhibition. The permanent collections and often highprofile exhibitions are really something to see. All in all, this is a museum you are certain to visit regularly. The Museum shop in the Groningen Museum lobby provides designs by national and international designers, who include Starck, Alessi, and Mendini, as well as books about art, architecture, and fashion. An unparalleled place for finding wonderful presents.
Dutch Comic Strip Museum
Experience the long history of comic strips: from the first hieroglyphs to ultramodern computer animation. Genuine comic strip enthusiasts should definitely take the time to browse through the bins of the various comic strip shops in the Pelsterstaat after visiting the museum. After all, you never know what you might find!

 Coincidental meetings
There’s never a dull moment when walking through Groningen. One can even use the lavatory in a culturally sound manner in the most beautiful public restroom in the world, designed by Rem Koolhaas and decorated by Erwin Olaf. When the Werkmanbrug bridge is up, take the opportunity to enjoy the work of art by the Belgian artist Delvoye, which is located at the underside of the bridge. Buy your newspaper on the Grote Markt in the spectacular glass newspaper stand. While waiting for a train, look up and admire the magnificent and the papiermâché ceilings of the central station. Groningen’s every fibre is permeated with culture. Meeting ULTRA, the lady on the pavement next to the 'De Regentes' residential tower near the main railway station is spectacular. Eight metres high, she has seemingly just descended the stairs, since part of her train is still on the steps.