A trip to the Glyptothek is ideal for any fan of sculptures from the antique period. The grand temple on Königsplatz in Munich is one of the world’s most important museums for the antique era.
The majority of the exhibits come from the collection belonging to King Ludwig I, whose passion for Antique art was sparked while he was still the Crown Prince.
A trip to Italy in 1804/05 played a particularly key role, with the Wittelsbach royal bringing an impressive collection of Greek and Roman sculptures back to Munich to share with his public. He came up with the Glyptothek as a suitable setting to showcase his pieces. The building was based on a design by the royal architect Leo von Klenze and opened in 1830, becoming Munich’s first public museum.
The impressive structure, with its Greek-style temple façade, Ionic columns and statues housed in the alcoves on the outer façade, gives visitors the chance to see an outstanding collection of Greek and Roman marble statues.
Highlights include a piece known as the Trunkene Alte (Old Drunkard) and the Barberini Faun.
Along with the Propoläen (Propylaea) and the Staatliche Antikensammlungen (State Museum of Classical Art), the Glyptothek forms the complex of classical buildings on Königsplatz, which Ludwig I built to fulfil his dream of creating the “Athens of the North”.
Locals love the Glyptothek, not just because of the beautiful marble creations housed inside: Its large stone steps are a wonderful place to sit in the sunshine and leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind you.
Tip: The Staatliche Antikensammlungen directly across the square is home to Greek, Roman and Etruscan minor art and everyday objects.
Good to know: Munich Card holders are entitled to a reduced admission fee. If one owns the Munich City Pass, the entrance is free of charge. No matter which card you choose, the public transport is included.
