Alte Pinakothek

The Alte Pinakothek is a carefully curated treasure trove assembled by Bavarian rulers over centuries. The museum’s origins can be traced back to the Wittelsbach dynasty’s passion for art, but the museum in its current form officially opened its doors in 1836.

The driving force behind establishing the museum as a public institution was King Ludwig I. He wanted to make the royal art collections accessible to everyone, believing that art should be enjoyed by all, not just the elite.

However, like much of Munich, the Alte Pinakothek suffered during World War II. Bombs damaged a significant portion of the building, and many artworks had to be evacuated for safekeeping. Despite the devastation, the museum was painstakingly restored after the war, a testament to the enduring value placed on art and cultural heritage.

It houses a truly unparalleled collection of Old Master paintings, particularly strong in German, Dutch, Flemish, and Italian works from the 14th to 18th centuries. You’ll see masterpieces by Dürer, Rubens, Raphael, Titian, and many more artistic giants.

It is considered one of the oldest art galleries in the world, and its architecture itself is a part of its charm. Designed by Leo von Klenze, the building is a beautiful example of Neoclassical architecture, providing a fittingly grand setting for the art within.