At the Museum Kunstpalast you can find paintings from Dutch and Flemish masters and an extensive collection of contemporary art. You can also enjoy concert recitals and talks. This art museum’s origins date back to 1710 with the private collection of Johann Wilhelm II. Further collections were added during the 20th century and the museum opened at its current location in 2001.
One of the first stops should be the Gallery of Paintings, the collection started by Johann Wilhelm II. Find work by Dutch and Flemish painters, including Peter Paul Rubens’ Assumption of the Virgin. Look for Roman and North Italian pieces from the 17th and 18th centuries. Among these is an oil painting of Alexander with the Body of Darius by Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini.
The Modern Art collection contains paintings, sculptures, and multimedia art from the 19th century onward. This includes the Photographic Archive of the Rhine Art Scene (AFORK), a collection of around 6,000 photographs taken in the 1950s and 1960s. Don’t miss the Hentrich Glass Collection. With over 3,000, pieces it is one of the largest glass collections in Europe. Highlights include a display of Art Deco glasses by French artist Maurice Marinot and Middle Age glass artifacts from the Merovingian era (A.D. 584-641) to the Renaissance years.
Visit the museum during one of its temporary exhibitions, such as Prints by Picasso and work by local artist Konrad Klapheck. Music also plays a key role in the museum’s attractions. Listen to classical music concerts, jazz, and folk musicians in the 800-seat Robert Schumann Saal. Find details of exhibitions and concerts on the museum’s official website.
Situated in the city center, the Museum Kunstpalast is a short walk from the Hofgarten and Old Town. Pay-and-display parking is available nearby. Alternatively, take the subway to Tonhalle/Ehrenhof station.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Check the museum’s official website for the complete opening hours.
