Mysterious, precious, and of mythical origin: over 500 years ago, corals were regarded as wonders from the depths of a barely explored sea. Between ancient legend and early science, the belief persisted that they had been formed from the blood of the Medusa. 

The special exhibition The Blood of Medusa at Ambras Castle Innsbruck is dedicated to this fascinating history and traces a path right up to the present day. At its heart are around 50 coral objects from the unique collection of Archduke Ferdinand II, complemented by selected loans scientific perspectives.  

Rooms sensually staged with light, colour, and sound bring art and nature into dialogue. At the same time, the exhibition raises awareness of corals as fragile icons of climate change – once more precious than gold, today threatened as never before.