Dreams of Fire – Florian Illies and the alchemist of Peacock Island
In his new book, bestselling author Florian Illies opens up yet another chapter of the past: In Dreams of Fire, he explores the pre-scientific art of alchemy, whose ultimate goal was the transmutation of the elements into gold. At the center of his novel, based on historical facts, is the alchemist Johannes Kunckel. In recognition of his work, Kunckel was gifted Peacock Island – located between Potsdam and Berlin – by the Elector of Brandenburg. On the island, Kunckel conducted secret experiments in his workshop. Ultimately, his furnace did not produce gold, but rather a ruby-red glass that quickly became one of the most coveted luxury goods in Europe. Kunckel completed the transition from pre-Enlightenment magic to early natural science, to chemistry – and in doing so, made history. “Illies excels at turning history into adventure stories” (DLF KULTUR). Host: Claudia Dichter
Contributors
Florian Illies
Florian Illies was born in 1971. With his bestselling novel “1913” (20… This text was shortened for this overview. Follow the more-link to read the full text.
Claudia Dichter
Claudia Dichter lives in Cologne, where she works as a freelance… This text was shortened for this overview. Follow the more-link to read the full text.
Books
Event data
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Date:
Wednesday
10. June 2026
19:30 -
Pre € 30 | 26 (ermäßigt)
Eve Evening fund price € 34 | 30 (ermäßigt)
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Accessibility
- Induction loop Available
- Wheelchair-accessible Available
- Assistance dogs welcome Available
