Altes Museum
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
Fee: YesAltes Museum Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: Bodestraße 1-3, 10178 Berlin, Germany
Phone: 030 266424242
Official Website: Altes Museum
Altes Museum Reviews
Rated out of 5
Excellent museum of ancient Greece, the Etruscans and Rome. So many incredible things to look at. Lots of good signage to give some context. You must visit if you love the ancient world as I do. Be prepared for the giant phallus and the images of bestiality!
Jamie Hay - 2 months ago
The Altes Museum, located on Berlin’s Museum Island, is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and a treasure trove of ancient art. Designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, its grand columns and rotunda create a majestic entrance. Inside, the museum houses an exceptional collection of Greek, Etruscan, and Roman artifacts, including stunning sculptures, vases, and jewelry. The central rotunda, inspired by the Pantheon, adds to the museum’s timeless elegance. Though smaller than some of Berlin’s other museums, the Altes Museum offers a fascinating journey into the ancient world, making it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.
Tiago Camacho - 2 months ago
Amazing experience! I highly recommend visiting this museum, especially if you appreciate architecture. 😅
Nazanin K - a month ago
Ancient Greek and Egyptian works of art are must-see, spend at least 2 hours here. Panorama Exhibition, Bode, Byzantine Art New Museum, Altes, Alte National Gallerie, bought a ticket for all exhibitions, I think it is 24 euros, discount for students is available.
Fatih Özerdem - 4 months ago
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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Photo Credit: xiquinhosilva - cc license via Flickr
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