10 Things to Do in Alte Pinakothek, Munich, Germany
The Alte Pinakothek, or Old Pinakothek, is one of the oldest and most prestigious art galleries in the world. Located in Munich, Germany, the museum is home to a vast collection of European art from the 13th to 19th centuries, making it an ideal destination for art lovers and history buffs alike. From exploring the works of renowned masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens to admiring the architecture of the grand building itself, there is no shortage of things to do in the Alte Pinakothek. Here are 10 of the best activities to enjoy while visiting this iconic museum.
1. Admire the Architecture: The Alte Pinakothek was built in 1826 to house the art collection of King Ludwig I of Bavaria. The building was designed by Leo von Klenze in the neoclassical style, with a grand entrance hall and a sweeping staircase leading to the upper galleries. The exterior of the building is adorned with statues of famous artists, while the interior is decorated with frescoes and sculptures.
2. Explore the Collection: The Alte Pinakothek houses an impressive collection of European art from the 13th to 19th centuries. Highlights include works by such masters as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Dürer, as well as Renaissance and Baroque paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s collection of furniture, silverware, and porcelain.
3. Visit the Special Exhibitions: The Alte Pinakothek regularly hosts special exhibitions of art from around the world, such as the “Splendours of the Habsburgs” exhibition in 2017. These exhibitions provide an opportunity to explore the museum’s collection in greater depth and to discover new works of art.
4. Attend a Concert: The Alte Pinakothek often hosts concerts in its grand entrance hall, allowing visitors to enjoy the music while admiring the architecture and art. Past concerts have included performances of classical music, jazz, and even modern pop.
5. Take a Guided Tour: The Alte Pinakothek offers guided tours in several languages, allowing visitors to learn more about the museum’s history and collection. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories about the art and architecture of the museum.
6. Enjoy a Meal: The Alte Pinakothek has an on-site restaurant, Café Pinakothek, which serves delicious meals and snacks. The café also has an outdoor terrace where visitors can relax and enjoy the view of the museum’s gardens.
7. Shop for Souvenirs: The museum’s on-site shop sells a variety of souvenirs, from books and postcards to prints and jewelry. Visitors can also purchase tickets to the museum here.
8. Attend a Lecture: The Alte Pinakothek regularly hosts lectures on topics related to art and history. These lectures provide an opportunity to learn more about the museum’s collection and the artists who created it.
9. Take a Break: The museum’s gardens provide a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the view. There are several benches and tables scattered throughout the gardens, as well as a café where visitors can grab a snack or a drink.
10. Visit the Nearby Attractions: The Alte Pinakothek is located in the heart of Munich, making it easy to explore the city’s other attractions. Nearby sights include the Bavarian State Library, the Deutsches Museum, and the Hofgarten.
Whether you’re an art lover or a history buff, the Alte Pinakothek has something to offer everyone. With its vast collection of European art, its grand architecture, and its many activities, the museum is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.