Kunstmuseum Bern

Overview

The Kunstmuseum Bern is one of the oldest art museums in Switzerland, founded in 1879. Its collection spans eight centuries, from medieval Gothic altarpieces to contemporary art, with particular strength in Paul Klee, Ferdinand Hodler, and international modernism.

Highlights

• Paul Klee Collection: One of the world's most significant holdings of Klee's work, complementing the nearby Zentrum Paul Klee.
• Hodler Gallery: Major works by Ferdinand Hodler, including monumental landscapes of the Swiss Alps.
• Gurlitt Collection: A portion of the controversial Cornelius Gurlitt bequest, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Cézanne.

History

The museum's origins lie in a collection assembled by the Bernese aristocracy in the 18th century. The current building dates from 1879, with extensions added in 1936 and 1983. In 2014, the museum accepted the Gurlitt bequest — over 1,500 works of contested provenance — sparking international debate and extensive provenance research.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free admission on the first Saturday of each month.
• Tip 2: Allow extra time for temporary exhibitions on the upper floors.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.