Archäologische Staatssammlung

Located in the heart of Munich, the Archäologische Staatssammlung is the State Archaeological Collection of Bavaria and serves as one of Germany’s most significant repositories of archaeological artifacts. Established in 1885, the museum was initially created to house the growing number of prehistoric and early historical discoveries from across the region. The institution’s rich collections trace the development of Bavaria and central Europe from the Paleolithic era through the early Middle Ages, with exhibits featuring invaluable objects from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman and Migration periods. Visitors can admire the famed Bronze Age hoards, rare Celtic gold coins, and an extensive assemblage of Roman legacy, including ceramics, tools, and jewelry that shed light on everyday life in ancient times. The museum is also renowned for its research and conservation work, participating in landmark excavations such as the discovery of the Manching Celtic oppidum in the 1950s and the graves of the Alamanni warriors in the 1970s. The new building, inaugurated in 1976, was specifically designed to accommodate ongoing archaeological finds and growing collections, enhancing both exhibit space and scientific facilities. The Archäologische Staatssammlung functions not only as a museum but also as a research hub, frequently hosting scholarly conferences, educational programs, and temporary exhibitions on topics like Roman military expansion or the prehistoric salt mines of Hallstatt. In recent decades, digitization projects have made significant parts of its collection accessible to a global audience. Whether delving into the iconic Nebra Sky Disk or medieval grave goods, history enthusiasts will find the museum’s rich narrative and extensive displays a fascinating journey through the region’s distant past.