Haus der Kunst is a contemporary art museum on Prinzregentenstraße, beside the English Garden in Munich. Its changing exhibitions bring together international artists, with large installations sometimes made for the museum’s spacious halls. The building’s history gives the visit an added dimension: it opened in 1937 as a venue for Nazi-approved art and has shown art since 1946. Check the programme for a guided tour or live event, then browse the bookshop or stop at die Goldene Bar. The nearby Eisbach wave is an easy add-on.
A museum shaped by changing ideas about art
Haus der Kunst opened in 1937 as Haus der Deutschen Kunst. The Nazi regime built it to promote art it considered acceptable, while modernist works it labelled “degenerate” were banned. The building’s monumental, colonnaded design belongs to that history.
Art has been exhibited here since 1946. The institution now focuses on contemporary art, giving the building a very different role from the one it was created to serve. Its past is part of the visit, but the exhibition programme is not a permanent display about that history.
Changing exhibitions and large installations
Haus der Kunst has no permanent collection on display. Instead, its programme centres on temporary exhibitions, often featuring artists from different parts of the world and themes connected to social questions. Several exhibitions can be on view at once, so check the current programme before your visit to see what is showing.
The museum’s broad exhibition spaces can accommodate works on a substantial scale. Some installations are conceived specifically for the building, using its halls as part of the experience. Past presentations have included Tomás Saraceno’s work on the environment and nature, Philippe Parreno’s “Voices,” and an installation by Steina. These are examples from earlier programmes, not a guide to what is currently on view.
Tours, events and a nearby stop
A guided tour can add context to an exhibition, and the museum lists some tours in English on its website. Haus der Kunst also hosts performances and music events, so the programme can extend beyond gallery exhibitions. Check dates and details directly with the venue before making plans.
The museum has a bookshop with art books and other products. Die Goldene Bar is also inside the building, with indoor and outdoor seating and views towards the Isar. Just outside, the Eisbach wave draws surfers to a standing wave in the stream. It makes an easy stop before or after the galleries, especially if you want to see a very different side of Munich’s park life.
Preguntas frecuentes
Does Haus der Kunst have a permanent collection?
No. The museum focuses on temporary exhibitions rather than displaying a permanent collection.
Are guided tours available in English?
Some guided tours are in English. Check the museum website for the current schedule.
How long should I spend at Haus der Kunst?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore the exhibitions and leave time for the bookshop or a stop at die Goldene Bar.
What is the history of Haus der Kunst?
It opened in 1937 as Haus der Deutschen Kunst, a venue created by the Nazi regime to promote approved art. The museum has exhibited art since 1946 and now presents contemporary work.
