German National Museum, Nuremberg (must see)

The German National Museum, located in Nuremberg, stands as the largest museum of cultural history in the country. Founded in 1852, the museum was established with the vision of creating a comprehensive archive of German history, literature, and art. Initially named the Germanic National Museum, its foundation was influenced by significant 19th-century scholars such as the Brothers Grimm and Leopold Ranke, aligning with efforts to document the cultural unity of German-speaking regions during a period marked by national aspirations and cultural renaissance.

This museum is home to a vast collection that includes over 1.3 million objects, of which about 25,000 are on display, encompassing a timeline from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum's scope includes not only artistic and historical artifacts but also extends to educational and research activities, presenting an international and interdisciplinary view of German-speaking cultures.

Architecturally, the museum is a historical artifact, incorporating structures from various periods including the remnants of the Nuremberg Charterhouse, which dates back to 1525. Over the centuries, the building has undergone significant transformations, including Neo-Gothic extensions in the late 19th century and reconstruction efforts post-World War II, reflecting a blend of historical and modern architectural styles.

A significant feature of the museum is the entrance hall on Kartäusergasse, transformed by Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan into the "Way of Human Rights," symbolizing the museum's commitment to cultural respect and human dignity.

The German National Museum serves as a crucial repository and exhibition space that not only preserves but also interprets the rich tapestry of German cultural history for both the national and international community.

Tip:
The museum is open late on a Wednesday and free of charge after 6 pm, though you would still need a few more hours to see everything.
Study the map you get at the start and try to plan your visit, as the museum areas don't flow into each other and you could spend much time backtracking.