We recently visited Munich and had a nice time at Lenbachhaus (€10 per adult), a Florentine style villa that belonged to painter Franz von Lenbach and is now a museum of contemporary and modern art in the Museum District. Opening hours are 10am to 6pm (Wed - Sun) with extended opening hours to 8pm on Tuesdays. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Firstly, the architecture of Lenbachhaus is very nice and easy to enjoy. As is the courtyard which is beautifully manicured and maintained. This is a neat place to spend a few minutes taking a break from art viewing within the museum.
We found the temporary exhibitions on the first two floors a bit interesting. However, we preferred the permanent collection including the Historic Rooms designed and filled with the works of Lenbach as well as the very good Blue Rider collection on the top floor.
The Blue Rider collection was particularly impressive and what we remember most of our visit to Lenbachhaus. In addition to a good historical account of the group founding and members, there is a rich collection of artworks, including a large number of Kandinsky paintings which were nice to see. Other Blue Rider artists are well represented in the collection as well.
Overall, we were pleased with our 2 hour visit to Lenbachhaus, particularly for the Blue Rider Collection. We would gladly return to visit this portion of the...
Read moreLenbachhaus is a private art museum in Munich, best known for its outstanding permanent collection, especially its pivotal holdings from the Blue Rider movement—a groundbreaking form of German Expressionism led by Franz Marc and Wassily Kandinsky. Rooted in Munich, this movement holds a special resonance within the museum's walls.
The museum is housed in a charming Florentine-style villa, once the residence of Franz von Lenbach, which has been thoughtfully expanded with a sleek, modern extension designed by Norman Foster’s firm. This blend of historic and contemporary architecture sets the museum apart and offers a striking contrast to its urban surroundings. A tranquil garden and an inviting café-restaurant further enrich the visitor experience.
Staff members are reserved and disciplined, yet consistently professional and helpful. The museum store is another highlight—well-stocked and thoughtfully curated.
One of my most memorable experiences was the Turner exhibition (28.10.2023–10.03.2024), remarkably staged in the mezzanine floor of the Königsplatz subway station just across the street. This event exemplifies the high caliber of temporary exhibitions curated or organized by Lenbachhaus. With a steady stream of such engaging shows, the museum always offers compelling...
Read moreI have visited Lenbachhaus for several times and I really enjoy the arts inside. I made another this time and found out there is a new layout and many new painting are exhibiting. It should have become a fantastic visit this time. Unfortunately, when I was visiting the book corner on the second floor, viewing a book. The guard came to me and asked if I understood German. I did not answer but he did not want to stop. He continued with a mocking tone, asking if I catch the book only because I want to found any photo. I have to say I felt offended. If the book in this corner are not intended for visitor to read, why should there be such a book corner? If it is welcomed for visitors to have a look, then I don’t think it is appropriate for a staff to make such mocking comment on the visitor, which is not only impolite but also discriminatory. Out of respect on the very good design of the gallery, I rate 2 out of 5 instead of 0 out of 5. A good day is easy to be ruined by simply a few...
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