From banned science to carnival satire – a new exhibition at the University Library

It all started with an unexpected find in a depository.

The University Library’s copy of Nicolaus Copernicus’s groundbreaking work De revolutionibus orbium coelestium from 1566 was rediscovered by chance – a work that transformed our view of the universe and was later banned by the Church.

“The fact that we can now showcase the book to a wide audience is unique. This isn’t just a historical document. It’s a symbol of the courage to think differently,” says Lena Landgren, one of the two project managers and controller at the University Library.

When the discovery also coincided with the theme of the 2026 Lund Carnival – Celestial Carnival – an idea emerged that could only have been conceived in Lund.

When science meets carnival

The new exhibition brings together some of the most revolutionary ideas in the history of science and Lund’s long tradition of student pranks.

Astronomical works from the 16th and 17th centuries, an 18th-century celestial globe and the story of Lund professor Nils Schenmark’s role in the development of astronomy are displayed alongside carnival posters, photographs and archive material. The past meets the present; seriousness meets playfulness.

– Thinking freely, questioning and challenging authority is a common thread. This applies to both Copernicus and the satire of the carnival, says Martine Castoriano, also project manager and librarian at the University Library.

The exhibition highlights how science and humour share the same foundation: the freedom to test ideas, shift perspectives and challenge the status quo.

More than just an exhibition

This initiative also marks a new phase for the University Library.

Following the refurbishment of its public areas, the University Library has gained a new exhibition space – and has set out a clear ambition to reach a wider audience.

“We want to be a place that not only focuses on cultural heritage preservation, but also brings it to life. Our collections should be relevant here and now,” says Lena Landgren.

The exhibition is intended to serve as a platform for further discussion. During the exhibition period, a series of lectures is therefore planned, with researchers from various disciplines invited to offer new perspectives.

– We want to create a multidisciplinary space. It encompasses everything from physics and mathematics to ethnology and the social sciences – and we want to show how our collections can inspire new research, says Lena Landgren.

A topical theme

Freedom of thought is not merely a historical theme.

“Freedom of thought is a prerequisite for democracy. At a time when books are being banned and academic freedom is under threat, this feels more important than ever,” says Martine Castoriano.

By combining Copernicus’s scientific breakthroughs with the carnival tradition of mocking authority, the exhibition aims to highlight something fundamental: the right to think, question and express oneself freely.

For the whole of Lund – and a little more

The hope is that the exhibition will attract staff, students and the general public – not least during the carnival weeks in May.

Perhaps carnival-goers will find their way to Copernicus – or visitors interested in astronomy will discover the history of the carnival.

– Here, you can both relive your own carnival memories and discover something new. We want to spark curiosity, instil a sense of pride and show that our collections are relevant to more people than you might think, says Martine Castoriano.

The exhibition is produced in collaboration with the Academic Society’s archives and the 2026 Carnival Committee, and is presented in both Swedish and English.