The Lenbachhaus Munich: Centre of international art

A collection that writes art history

The Lenbachhaus in Munich may first and foremost be associated with the famous - and world's largest - Blue Rider collection, but the Städtische Galerie offers much more: the internationally active museum brings together Munich art from the 19th century, works of Expressionism and New Objectivity as well as world-renowned contemporary art under one roof. The Lenbachhaus has set itself the goal of juxtaposing different styles, showing new artistic trends and presenting important developments.

The avant-garde of German modernism: works by the Blauer Reiter group of artists

Today, the works of the Blauer Reiter group of artists are counted among the avant-garde of German modernism, including creations by Wassily Kadinsky, Gabriele Münter, Franz Marc, August Macke and Paul Klee. While the followers of Expressionism consciously renounced Naturalism, artists of the New Objectivity movement once again made stronger reference to the world of the visible. This is demonstrated by the works of Georg Schrimpf and Rudolf Schlichter, both important artists of this style. Contemporary art also has its very own creative perspective. The environment "Zeige deine Wunde" (1979) by Joseph Beuys, which makes visitors realise their own mortality, deserves a special mention here.

The Kunstbau: a unique space for contemporary art

The Städtische Galerie initially focussed primarily on Munich art of the 19th century and German art of the 20th century, but today there is also a large focus on (inter)national contemporary art. The Kunstbau, located on the distribution level of an underground station and only a few metres away from the Lenbachhaus, offers sufficient space and special lighting options for the regularly changing special exhibitions of contemporary artists.

The Lenbachhaus as a work of art in itself: Franz von Lenbach's villa

In addition to the numerous paintings, sculptures and installations, the Lenbachhaus itself is also an expression of artistic brilliance: the former city villa and artists' residence was the joint work of the renowned artist Franz von Lenbach and the Munich star architect Gabriel von Seidl. It was not until 1929, long after Lenbach's death, that today's Städtische Galerie finally opened there.

Culinary delights at Café Ella

The restaurant and café Ella, named after the pet name of Wassily Kandinsky's artist friend and partner Gabriele Münter, is located between the Lenbachhaus and the Kunstbau. Guests can relax here with good coffee and cake - or enjoy European cuisine with an Italian twist. The prices are in the upper mid-range. But the view from the sun terrace of the classicist Königsplatz is worth every cent.

Practical tips: Getting there and opening hours

The Lenbachhaus is an easy ten-minute walk from Munich Central Station. Leave the main station on the east side and turn left across Bahnhofsplatz. After about 100 metres, cross Arnulfstraße at the traffic lights and walk straight ahead onto Luisenstraße. Follow this street for about 650 metres. You will walk straight towards the Lenbachhaus on Königsplatz.

Current information on admission prices and opening hours can be found on the Lenbachhaus website .