The Altes Museum provides an illuminating journey through ancient history. This expansive building is called the Altes Museum (Old Museum) because it was completed in 1830, some decades earlier than the Neues Museum (New Museum) behind it. Notice how the imposing structure contributes to the grandiose atmosphere of Museum Island.
Inspect the stately façade, which features 18 huge columns and overlooks the Lustgarten public park. Read the Latin inscription recording Friedrich Wilhelm III’s dedication of the museum to the “study of all antiquities and the free arts.”
Inside, examine sculptures, bronzes, sarcophagi, vases and pottery pieces from the state’s vast and internationally renowned Antikensammlung (collection of classical antiquities). The collection originated from the private assemblages of the electors of Brandenburg and the kings of Prussia, and includes objects from all over the world.
The crown jewel of the museum is its Pantheon-like rotunda. Admire the exquisite antique sculptures set around the sides of this circular room and reflect upon the significance of these influential ancient civilizations. Rising up from the ground floor of the rotunda are columns, which point up to a domed ceiling and a skylight that allows natural light to flow in. This is one of the earliest examples of purpose-built museum architecture in the world.
While you’re on Museum Island, visit the Neues Museum and the Berliner Dom, both of which are just a short walk away from the Altes Museum. Rest, people-watch or enjoy a picnic on the lawn of the Lustgarten.
The Altes Museum is on Museum Island, in the middle of the River Spree. The museum is closed on Mondays. Purchase tickets online or at the door. Save money by buying a combined pass for multiple Berlin museums. Finding parking in this part of Berlin can be difficult, so consider using the S-Bahn or local buses to get here instead.
