In 1993 after having considered a relocation of one of the largest private collections of ceramics to the "Old Abbey" at Mettlach, the management of Villeroy & Boch, as owners of the collection, decided that this interesting, exquisite and valuable exhibit will remain at Schloss Ziegelberg. The Museum continues to be open to the public, to scientific researchers, to collectors, and to the many tourists who visit this part of the Saar region.

Then under the patronage of Professor D. Breitenbach, Minister of Culture and Education in the Saarland, joint responsibility for this Museum has been taken by Villeroy & Boch, the city of Mettlach and the District of Merzig-Wadern, to safeguard and ensure that this cultural heritage will remain viable and available to the entire country - and the world.

The Ceramic Museum Mettlach/Villeroy & Boch collection is one of Germany’s biggest private collections, with holdings of over 12,000 items. It is also one of the best-visited museums in the Saarland, having had 25,000 visitors in 1992. Miss Ester Schneider, V&B, will be in charge of the Museum, since Dr. Therese Thomas vacated the position of Curator at the end of 1992.

The Museum is open every day, except Monday, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Special exhibitions are planned from time to time, and there is a large selection of information material available, such as books, pamphlets, monographs and picture postcards.

We cordially invite all SCI members and others interest in the broad field of ceramics, stoneware and beer steins to visit the Mettlach Ceramic Museum in Schloss Ziegelberg when in the Saar area.