Altes Museum

Facada of the Altes Museum from Lustgarten
Facada of the Altes Museum from Lustgarten cc licensed photo by Harald Henkel

The Altes Museum ( Old Museum), located in Lustgarten on Museum Island is impressive for both incredible neoclassical architecture and its renowned collection of antiquities.

Designed by the renowned Prussian architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel, construction took place between 1823 and 1828. it was inaugurated as a museum in 1830.

The museum underwent a long period of repair and restoration between 1951 and 1966. Some of the repairs were to damage caused during the Second World War. In 1999 it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Further restorative work was undertaken between 2010 and 2011.

As you approach the entrance to the Altes Museum you will be greeted by a massive staircase leading up to the 18 towering columns of the Portico. This is reminiscient of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. A sculpture of an eagle stands directly above each column on the front edge of the roof.

The staircase and elevated main floor, are not just for grandeur, they were neccesary to protect the museum from occassional floods.

Upon entering, you’ll find yourself in an large, impressive, light-filled rotunda ringed with antique sculptures. From there you’ll be led on a chronological journey through two floors of rooms containing ancient Roman, Greek and Estrucan artifacts. Highlights include a huge collection consisting of 1300 coins dating from the 7th Century BC to the 3rd Century AD, the treasure chest, a valuable collection of ancient jewelry and gemstones, and busts of Caesar and Cleopatra.

Allow about one-and-a-half to two hours for your visit.

Facts For Your Visit

Official Website: Altes Museum

Fee: Yes

Closed Now

Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.

  • Tuesday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Sunday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Category: Museums

Address: Am Lustgarten 1
10178 Berlin
Germany

Phone: +49 30 20905577

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
4 out of 5 4 Star Rating
Based on 34 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

4 Star Rating Originally built to showcase the art collection of the Prussian royal family, the Altes Museum today features classical antiquities, that is, a vast... Read More

Vincent L. Nov-28-2019

4 Star Rating Another great museum in Berlin! It located itself in a really nice location, many famous architectures and land landmarks are around. If you love some... Read More

Torterry C. Oct-31-2014

3 Star Rating I wish I had more time on my trip to tour all the museums in Berlin. Honestly, if you're an experienced museum goer, I wouldn't spend that much time in the... Read More

Catherine T. Nov-02-2013

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Directions

How to get to Altes Museum by U-Bahn, S-Bahn

Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn Line(s): S1, S2, S3, S5, S7, S9, S25, S26, S75, U6
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn Station(s): Berlin Friedrichstraße

Exit from Friedrichstraße Station. Walk one block south on Fredrichstrasse and go left (east) on Dorotheenstrasse. When you get to the river, go right on Am Kupfergraben and cross the bridge just ahead. Once over the bridge turn right into Lustgarten to get to the front of the Altes Museum.

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Video


Watch this video for a very interesting overview of the amazing Altes Museum.

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