Heidelberg /Germany, September 15, 2025 – Today marks a significant milestone in the world of exhibitions as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of BODY WORLDS, a groundbreaking exhibition that has captured the hearts and minds of millions around the world. It was on September 15, 1995, when the first BODY WORLDS exhibition opened its doors at the Tokyo National Science Museum, coinciding with the 100th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Anatomical Society.
Little did anyone know at the time that this event would mark the start of an incredible journey. BODY WORLDS, through its revolutionary display of real human bodies, has fascinated and educated over 57 million visitors in more than 170 cities and 42 countries across six continents. Today, it is recognized as one of the most successful and influential exhibition concepts in the world.
The foundation of this success can be traced back to Dr. Gunther von Hagens, the inventor of Plastination, a groundbreaking technique that allows for the preservation of real human bodies for educational purposes. What was once only accessible to medical professionals, became accessible and understandable to all through this technique.
“My goal from the beginning was to democratize anatomy, to give people the opportunity to see inside themselves. This was not to break taboos, but rather to invite people to gain knowledge, respect, and responsibility for their own bodies,” explains von Hagens.
The exhibition’s curator, Dr. Angelina Whalley, who has been involved in the conceptual design since its inception, adds, “BODY WORLDS has transformed the way we understand the human body and has played a significant role in promoting a new culture of education about health and life.”
Even after three decades, BODY WORLDS continues to be relevant, thanks to its universal subject: the human being. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with digital stimuli and are always on the move, the exhibition offers a rare moment of pause and reflection. Even the initial criticism faced by the exhibition, particularly in Germany, has not deterred its impact. Today, BODY WORLDS provides a direct connection to one’s own body, promotes health awareness, and encourages individuals to take responsibility for their lives.
It is this unique combination of scientific education, personal relevance, and emotional impact that makes the exhibition timeless and meaningful to every new generation.
Join us in celebrating 30 years of BODY WORLDS – a tribute to life that continues to move, inspire, and transform people.
To mark this special occasion, we invite you to watch our jubilee film on https://bit.ly/BW_AnniversaryFilm.
For press inquiries, please contact the Institute for Plastination, Jeanette Luley at j.luley@plastination.com or call +49 6221 33 11 22.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.