The Alte Nationalgalerie (or Old National Gallery, in German) is the place to go in Berlin for a dazzling collection of Neoclassical, Romantic, Biedermeier, Modernist and Impressionist art. As well as unmissable works by German artists, here you’ll find paintings by Manet, Monet, Cézanne and others.
The very first thing you’ll notice upon arriving at the Alte Nationalgalerie is how impressive the building is, even when compared with the other wonders on this magnificent island of culture. Walk in and you’ll be amazed by the simple yet classy interior, which highlights the artworks without getting in their way.
Although the collection is massive, featuring 1,800 paintings and 1,500 sculptures, this is an easy museum to explore. Highlights include Lovis Corinth’s The Blind Samson, Adolph von Menzel’s The Iron Rolling Mill, and Max Liebermann’s Impressionist paintings, proving that this 19th-century movement wasn’t exclusive to Paris.
If you prefer your art in 3D, check out the sculpture hall on the first floor. Masterpieces like Louis Sussmann-Hellborn’s Sleeping Beauty will make you wonder how on earth someone can apply that much detail to a block of marble.
In a city famous for its World War II monuments and museums, the Alte Nationalgalerie is a welcome (and sometimes needed) stop for some good old art.
Combine Alte Nationalgalerie with other Berlin favorites. Some things are better together.