Pinakothek der Moderne, Munich

The Pinakothek der Moderne in Munich unifies four art disciplines, paintings, graphics, architecture and design. It is one of the most visited contemporary art museums in Europe.

Stephan Braunfels, a Munich educated German architect designed the spacious building that houses the Pinakothek der Moderne. It was built between the years 1995 and 2002. The building is a rectangular structure with large windows. A vast canopied roof with a 25-meter glass dome is supported by white and grey columns. The building covers an area of 12,000 square meters.

The collection of modern paintings represents the 20th and 21st century with works by German and international artists on display. Video, photo and new media works are also displayed here. The graphics collection at the museum range from works collected by the Wittelsbach Royal family to contemporary 21st-century works. There are about 400,000 graphic sheets including old German and Dutch sketches, 19th century and contemporary works. The architecture museum hosts temporary exhibitions displaying blueprints, drawings, photographs, models and computer animations. The design collection has objects relating to industrial design, motor vehicle design, graphic design, and computer-generated models. In 2004, the Danner Foundation opened a special jewelry exhibition in the ground floor of the museum where creations of over a hundred international goldsmiths are on display.

Why You Should Visit:
The building is great, the gift shop is great, and the temporary exhibitions are always interesting.
Additionally, the design department is nothing short of superb featuring design evolution with beautiful iconic exhibits.

Tip:
Free audioguide with picture ID – worthwhile especially to get an understanding of why the building is designed as it is.
You can also purchase a multi-museum day pass for Alte/Neue/der Moderne Pinakothek.

Opening Hours:
Tue-Wed, Fri-Sun: 10am-6pm; Thu: 10am-8pm; Monday - closed.