ALTE PINAKOTHEK

This famous museum is a must for lovers of painting and art and European. It is the oldest museum in the Kunstareal München, Munich's museum district, which includes a dozen museums (including art galleries), galleries and educational institutions. Together with the Museum Island in Berlin, the Kunstareal is the largest museum complex in Germany. The Alte Pinakothek even ranks among the most beautiful and important art museums in the world and, as you will see, this reputation is well deserved.

Architecture. Built between 1826 and 1836 by Leo von Klenze (1784-1864), the court architect of Ludwig I of Bavaria, the building served as a model for other museums of its time, including the New Hermitage in St. Petersburg. When it opened, it was the largest museum in the world. During the Second World War, the building was severely damaged. It was rebuilt between 1946 and 1957 by architect Hans Döllgast (1891-1974), who decided to replace the missing parts of the facade with unplastered bricks to leave the war damage visible.

Collections. Sumptuous and functional at the same time, the Alte Pinakothek today houses a remarkable permanent exhibition of European paintings from the 14th to the 18th century, with more than 700 works displayed in 19 rooms and 47 cabinets. Visitors are invited to explore the history and development of art in Europe, from the Middle Ages to the late Rococo, Renaissance and Baroque. Works of art from the golden age of German, Flemish and Dutch painting, but also from southern Europe, i.e. French, Italian and Spanish, are on display. Among the masterpieces of the great masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Raphael, Boucher, Poussin, Rembrandt, Rubens and Dürer, there are self-portraits of the young Rembrandt and the famous self-portrait of Dürer at the age of 28. In addition to the permanent collection, there are thematic exhibitions on European painting as well as presentations of works in stock to complete the program. Feel free to take the audio guide, available in French, to learn more about the works on display

While waiting for the renovation of the Neue Pinakothekuntil the renovation of the Alte Pinakothek, the masterpieces of the collection will be on display on the first floor of the Alte Pinakothek, so that they will not be deprived of visitors during the renovation.

When you've sated your eyes, consider satisfying your stomach at Café Klenze on the first floor, where they make excellent cakes.