One of the world’s most important collections of Greek, Roman and Etruscan minor art is on display in the Staatliche Antikensammlungen (State Museum of Classical Art) on Königsplatz square in Munich.
The museum is home to an outstanding selection of Greek vases with world famous pieces from the 5th and 6th century B.C.
Visitors here can also discover small Antique sculptures in bronze and terracotta, intricate gold work and masterpieces in Antique glass-blowing. The majority of the exhibits come from the Wittelsbach family’s collection of antiques. King Ludwig I was especially fond of Antique art and began collecting Greek and Roman artwork while he was still the Crown Prince.
The Staatliche Antikensammlungen is housed in a Corinthian-style temple, which was built by Georg Friedrich Ziebland on behalf of the Bavarian King Ludwig I between 1838 and 1848. During the Second World War, the building sustained very heavy damage, particularly in the interior, meaning it had to be gutted and completely renovated. It took until 1967 for the Staatliche Antikensammlungen to reopen its doors as an exhibition venue.
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.
