Alte Pinakothek

Overview

The Alte Pinakothek holds one of the world's finest collections of Old Masters, spanning the 14th to the 18th century. The 1836 building by Leo von Klenze was itself a landmark—the first purpose-built public art gallery of its scale.

Highlights

• Dürer's Self-Portrait (1500): The young artist depicted in a Christ-like pose—a revolutionary statement of artistic self-worth.
• Rubens collection: 70+ paintings including The Great Last Judgment, one of the largest Baroque canvases ever painted.
• Albrecht Altdorfer's Battle of Alexander: A sweeping panoramic battle scene that inspired Napoleon.

History

King Ludwig I commissioned von Klenze's gallery to house the Wittelsbach dynasty's collection, amassed since the 16th century. Bomb damage in WWII was repaired by Hans Döllgast with a deliberately scarred concrete aesthetic.

Visitor Tips

• €1 Sundays: Full collection for just €1 on Sundays.
• Thursdays: Extended hours until 20:00 (check seasonally).
• Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours.