The Metal Roofer, formerly the Plumber @museum.de

Be glad that you've selected the English-language programme for your tour of the museum. Because one thing is clear to me, and probably to you as well: a metal roofer is a metal roofer is a metal roofer. And he's called that because he roofs buildings with metal. But in German-speaking countries, the usual name for this kind of tradesman raises questions and brings up contradictions. Here, a metal roofer is called a "Klempner", which is usually translated as plumber... and the proper term for that tradesman here is "Plumbing and Heating Installer". In other words, that's the one a German householder would call if they had a blocked toilet, or if their shower has caused water damage. But, the folk we're talking about here at the museum aren't sitting by the loo – they're scrambling around on the world's rooftops. The trade has specialized in producing sheet metal cladding and roof drainage and can look back on a long history.

In biblical times, the exterior if King Solomon's palace is said to have been sheathed in gold. At least according to the Old Testament.

In the fourth century of the Christian era, Emperor Constantine set about constructing what was then the largest roofed building in the world: the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. And that remarkable building not only has the largest metal roof in the world, but also the earliest we know of – and it's made of lead. Then there is St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, St. Mark's Church in Venice, St. Paul's Cathedral, Cologne Cathedral... a long list of illustrious buildings which metal roofers or sheet metal workers helped to build.

Finally, in 1813... the first zinc roof using seaming technique was built in Paris. Because... What would Paris be without its metal roofs! Not nearly as beautiful!

So when you’re back outside please do look up and take note of the artistic roof designs and façade elements. Today, the metal roofer not only plays an important part in preserving historic monuments and refurbishing historic zinc and copper roofs, they also contribute to the field of modern architecture, for both interiors and exteriors. And this very museum building is a perfect example!