Roman-Germanic Museum

Overview

The Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum) houses one of Europe's most important collections of Roman artifacts, built directly over the site where the famous Dionysus mosaic was discovered in 1941 during an air raid shelter excavation.

Highlights

• Dionysus Mosaic (c. 220 AD): A magnificent 70 m² floor mosaic depicting scenes of the wine god, visible from the street through the ground-floor windows.
• Poblicius Tomb (c. 40 AD): A 15-meter reconstructed Roman funerary monument.
• Glassware Collection: One of the world's finest collections of Roman glass, including the famous cage cup.

History

Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium was founded in 50 AD as a Roman colony. The museum, opened in 1974, sits on the site of a 3rd-century Roman villa. Note: the museum may partially operate from a temporary location during renovations.

Visitor Tips

• Check current location: Renovations may shift exhibitions to a satellite venue at Cäcilienstraße 46.
• Combine with the adjacent Museum Ludwig and cathedral for a cultural triple.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.