The Military History Museum in Dresden is the Bundeswehr's central museum of military history, set in a 19th-century arsenal in the Albertstadt district on Olbrichtplatz, north of the Neustadt. A steel and glass wedge by architect Daniel Libeskind, added in 2011, cuts through the old neoclassical facade. Inside, the exhibits run over five floors, from small bullets to large missiles, and the displays are arranged thematically as well as chronologically. Military vehicles and tanks stand outside, and admission is modest, around five euros by one account.
The building and the Libeskind wedge
The museum occupies a former arsenal built in the 1870s, which later served as a military museum for Saxony, the Third Reich and the GDR. After the Federal Republic had to decide what to do with the building, an architecture competition was held, and Daniel Libeskind won it.
His addition is a glass and steel wedge that pierces the neoclassical facade. From the outside, it looks as though the wedge has been driven into the wall. A closer look shows that the structure stands close to the wall rather than inside it. The building survived the Allied attacks of 1945 while much of Dresden burned, because it sat on the city's outskirts.
The extension was completed in 2011, after about six years of renovation.
Inside the collection
The collection holds more than 10,000 objects. They include the first submarine, military aircraft, cannons, mine-hunting robots, wartime artefacts and modern equipment. The museum also holds over 1.2 million items overall, including 800 land, air and sea vehicles and more than 1,000 guns.
The museum is split into two approaches. One side presents history in order, from the Middle Ages to the present. The other groups the material by theme, such as war and memory, and animals in the military. Visitors who want the story in sequence can follow the chronological route, and those who prefer themes can take the other.
The propaganda collection includes posters, films, wartime music and even toys. Ancient combat equipment such as shields, spears, bows, swords and daggers is also on show.
Approach to the war theme
The exhibits do not present a parade of victories. The museum takes a critical view of war and its causes, and it gives weight to the human cost. Some exhibits deal with the darker chapters of Germany's past.
The approach suits visitors with an interest in peace and history, and it is not a display of weapons for their own sake.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Visitors have described the admission as around five euros, which they found fair for the size of the collection. Check the museum's website for current prices.
How long do you need?
Plan at least three hours for a quick look. Visitors who want to see everything in detail should allow two to three days.
Is there parking?
Yes, the museum has a free parking lot, and it is wheelchair accessible.
Should I book tickets in advance?
The museum recommends getting tickets in advance.
