subject: The museums and galleries of Berlin [print this page] The museums and galleries of Berlin The museums and galleries of Berlin
Germany's cosmopolitan capital Berlin is one of the leading cities in Europe for cultural breaks, partly thanks to its abundance of excellent museums and art galleries, with no less than 170 being scattered throughout the city.
While the city itself is a historical marvel, from the rebuilt Reichstag to the sobering remains of the Berlin Wall, you can delve headlong into the history of Berlin, Germany and Europe when heading to the city's dedicated Museumsinsel (Museum Island), as well as experience some of the finest art from across the globe.
Many cities have a dedicated museum quarter for the convenience of cultural tourists, but Berlin's Museumsinsel holds up to repeat visits more than most. Home to five individual museums, including the striking Altes Museum designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, the area also houses some of the most significant paintings and sculptures from German history at the Alte Nationalgalerie, alongside famous works of the French impressionists.
Exquisite Schloss Charlottenburg is another great place to find a range of attractions under one roof, including the priceless, exotic treasures of the Berlin Egyptian Museum. The 18th-century palace itself is only accessible as part of a guided tour, but visitors can head to nearby galleries to see works from such luminaries as Pablo Picasso.
Berlin's artistic heritage doesn't only extend to the canvas and blocks of marble however, and you can learn all about the important role the city played in the development of cinema at the Filmmuseum. This attraction pays special attention to the early years of the medium, when Germany was one of the world leaders in expressionist cinema, producing such classics as Metropolis and Nosferatu that have stood the test of time.
If you're looking to soak up some of the local and national history during your stay at Berlin hotels, however, consider a trip to the Berlin Wall Memorial Site a must - not a pressing task, as this thoughtful and incredibly moving exhibition is free to enter. Constructed over seven years, this sole surviving section of the Berlin Wall features memorials to those who were killed trying to cross the border that divided the city for 28 years.
The Jewish Museum is another iconic building in Berlin, celebrating the history of Germany's Jewish population throughout the centuries, before and after their persecution. Designed by Daniel Liebeskind in the shape of a broken Star of David, the Jewish Museum is just one of many distinctive buildings that make Berlin such a hit for inspirational city breaks.
