Basel, Switzerland/basel086
Previous | Home | NextThis is one of the hallways in the museum. In this exact spot, 500 years ago, Johann Froben (Latinized name Johannus Frobenius) had his printing presses (the original wooden beams still exist). He established his printing business in Basel in 1491. Froben became wealthy by producing a high-quality product; his publishing house became the center of the German book trade. Froben was suffering from an ailment of his leg — probably necrosis arising from diabetes. His personal physicians suggested amputation, but Froben sought the advice of Paracelsus, who responded and journeyed to Basel in 1527. Paracelsus decided against drastic action, and through a regimen of more gentle treatment Froben was cured. Paracelsus was welcome to stay in the home of Froben, and Paracelsus launched a career in Basel by instructing at the university.
