At Berlin’s Kulturforum, the New National Gallery brings 20th-century European painting and sculpture together in a glass-and-steel pavilion designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. The collection spans classical modernism through art of the 1960s, with displays that can include works by Nefertiti and Yoko Ono. Take time to look at the building as well as the art: its square form and pared-back design make architecture part of the visit. Wall texts in German and English add context to the works.
A pavilion at the Kulturforum
The New National Gallery stands at Potsdamer Str. 50, within Berlin’s Kulturforum. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed the square pavilion, whose glass-and-steel construction and minimal form give the building a strong presence alongside the art inside.
Completed in 1968, it was one of Mies van der Rohe’s final works. The building is an important part of the visit in its own right: its simple geometry reflects the Modernist approach associated with the architect. The gallery reopened in 2021 after a period of renovation.
Art from the 20th century
The gallery’s collection covers European painting and sculpture from classical modernism through the art of the 1960s. Paintings, sculptures and multimedia installations are presented in the modern building, whose restrained design keeps attention on the works.
Displays can include artists and subjects as varied as Nefertiti and Yoko Ono. Exhibitions change, so the works on view depend on the current programme. Wall texts in both German and English provide information to help you follow the displays.
Making time for the visit
The gallery is part of the Kulturforum, near other cultural institutions including the Philharmonie and Gemäldegalerie. If you are planning a wider museum day, it can be one stop among several in the area.
The museum also has a cafe, shop, postcard machine and retro photo booth. The cafe serves pastries. For a more focused look at the collection, choose a quieter time and pause to read the wall texts rather than moving quickly from room to room.
Häufige Fragen
What kind of art is at the New National Gallery?
The collection includes 20th-century European paintings and sculptures, from classical modernism through art of the 1960s. Displays can also include multimedia installations.
Who designed the New National Gallery building?
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe designed the square glass-and-steel pavilion. It was completed in 1968.
Is the New National Gallery open on Mondays?
No. It is closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Wednesday and Friday to Sunday, it is open 10 am to 6 pm; on Thursday, it is open 10 am to 8 pm.
Are the wall texts available in English?
Yes. Wall texts are provided in German and English.
