If you are making your way round the museums in Maxvorstadt then the Alte Pinakothek is one that you should definitely cross off your list. It’s in the centre of Maxvorstadt and houses part of the Bavarian State Paintings Collections. On display are paintings that date from the 14th century to 18th century. Much of the art you will see is by the German masters, such as Reubens, however the museum has works by a range of European greats like El Greco, Velazquez, and Rembrandt. Built in 1836, the Alte Pinakothek was originally intended to simply house the art collection of the house of Wittelsbach. However, King Ludwig I decided that the building should serve the purpose of displaying his art collection to the public.

Only the top floor is used as gallery space, so although the building looks intimidating from the outside, it will not take you too long to work your way through each room if you haven’t got that much time to spare. In fact, this is definitely a museum best enjoyed at your own pace. You could sit and gaze at the enormity of Rubens’s The Great Last Judgement, or you could drink in every single classical scene, still life and self-portrait as you move from one room to the next. An audio-guide is included in the price of the ticket, providing you with contextual information for many of the paintings. These audio snippets go a long way towards making the work engaging so don’t be put off if this period of art history is not your favourite. You can tell that the building was designed around the paintings that it protects. The rooms are bright and airy, giving each painting enough light and space to be fully enjoyed. King Ludwig’s aim to bring art to the masses with this museum can be commended and you should definitely check it out.

Alte Pinakothek

Barer Straße 27, 80333 München