Militärhistorisches Museum der Bundeswehr

Overview

The Militärhistorisches Museum der Bundeswehr (Military History Museum) is Germany's largest military museum, housed in a 19th-century arsenal dramatically pierced by a massive glass-and-steel wedge designed by Daniel Libeskind. The architecture itself is a statement about the disruption of military tradition.

Highlights

• Libeskind Wedge: The 86-meter-long, 30-meter-high steel wedge cuts through the neo-classical facade, offering panoramic views from its apex.
• V-2 Rocket: An original World War II ballistic missile, the world's first long-range guided weapon.
• Thematic Exhibitions: The museum avoids chronological glorification, instead exploring themes like violence, suffering, and the politics of memory.

History

The arsenal was built in 1876 for the Royal Saxon Army. Under the GDR it became a Soviet-aligned military museum. After reunification, a complete reconceptualization led to Libeskind's radical 2011 redesign, making it one of Europe's most critically acclaimed museum renovations.

Visitor Tips

• Closed Wednesdays. Open until 21:00 on Mondays.
• Take the elevator to the top of the Libeskind wedge for city views.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.