The Westphalian State Museum for Art and Cultural History has a collection that spans the history of Westphalia, from its Roman days to the present. From coins to religious objects to sculpture, painting and graphic design, this museum provides great insight into the art and culture of Muenster and the surrounding region.
A good deal of the museum’s collection is devoted to many examples of spätgotik, a style of art popular in the late Middle Ages and Early Renaissance. It was extremely popular among the ruling houses of Europe. Spend extra time with the paintings of the Cranachs, a family of artists who were especially influential during the Reformation. You may know them from the iconic painting of Martin Luther, who was a personal friend of Lucas Cranach the Elder. Proceed on to the collection of old masters artworks, then to the collection on regional history, full of folk art as well as more traditional paintings and sculptures.
Move into the 20th century in the museum’s extensive collections of paintings from Der Blaue Reiter and Die Brücke movements that were fundamental to the creation of Expressionism. Be inspired by the paintings’ frenetic energy, primitivist style and highly saturated colors.
Every 10 years since 1977, the museum becomes home to the Skulptur Projekte, a multi-artist exhibition which dominates the grounds of the museum.
End your day of cultural exploration at the museum’s bar and restaurant, or pick up souvenirs at the charming museum shop.
The Westphalian State Museum for Art and Cultural History is open every day, except Monday. The second Friday of each month is the “Long Friday,” when the museum stays open until 10 p.m. The museum is located right off the Domplatz, very close to Muenster Cathedral and the Prinzipalmarkt, so it is easily accessible via public transportation. There is nearby metered parking as well as numerous spots to leave a bicycle.
