Overview: The MAMPE Museum opened its doors on July 3, 2026, within the historic premises of Mampe Berlin in Kreuzberg. This free exhibition showcases nearly 200 years of spirits history through 333 historical objects, including non-alcoholic gin from the Prohibition era and artifacts from a previously privately run collection.
The Full Story
The facility is located at Tempelhofer Berg 6, housed in the historic brewhouse of a former wheat beer brewery. While spirits are still produced on-site today, the museum recounts the company’s evolution from medical beginnings to modern distilling. Admission to the small MAMPE Museum is completely free, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of days gone by without entry fees.
The narrative begins in 1831 when Dr. Carl Mampe developed a stomach bitter in Stargard, Pomerania, intended as a remedy for the cholera epidemic that was rampant at the time. The company traces the history of its own non-alcoholic gin alternative, “Null Null,” back to 1921, when such products are said to have been shipped to the U.S. during Prohibition. Among the most curious exhibits is a non-alcoholic gin from the era of American Prohibition, presented in an unusual bottle shaped like a monkey. The collection also includes a non-alcoholic caraway liqueur from 1925, demonstrating that what seems like a modern trend today actually has a history dating back about 100 years at MAMPE.
Brand & Industry History
The story of MAMPE didn’t originally begin with a bar or a traditional beverage, but with a medical product. In 1831, Dr. Carl Mampe developed a stomach bitter in Stargard, Pomerania, intended as a remedy for the cholera epidemic that was rampant at the time. The bitter drops consisted, among other ingredients, of alcohol and various herbs and were initially sold through pharmacies. Over the decades, the MAMPE spirits brand evolved from these medical beginnings. This unusual origin story is also told in the new museum. Visitors learn more about the cholera epidemic of the 19th century and the herbs and spices used in the bitter liqueurs. Also on display is a copy of Carl Mampe’s license to practice medicine from 1823.
What This Means
The small MAMPE Museum is intentionally designed to be more than just a traditional exhibition with historical objects in display cases. Tasting MAMPE products is also part of the museum’s concept, bringing the past and present into direct contact: while visitors view historic bottles, photographs, and documents, spirits continue to be produced just a few meters away. It’s important to distinguish between free admission to the museum and any tastings that may be offered. Free admission does not automatically mean that every tasting is also offered free of charge.
Consumer Takeaway
For the drinker, this release offers access to nearly two centuries of company history within a small space in Kreuzberg. Visitors can view historic bottles, photographs, and documents while spirits continue to be produced on-site at Tempelhofer Berg 6. The collection includes artifacts from a previously privately run museum owned by Karin Erb, providing a comprehensive look at the brand’s legacy.
Source: Read the original article
