At Königsplatz in Munich’s Kunstareal, the Staatliche Antikensammlungen displays ancient Greek, Etruscan and Roman objects in a neoclassical building with Corinthian columns. Its focus is smaller works: look for painted pottery, glass, coins, bronze objects, gold jewellery and precious gems. A Fayum mummy portrait is displayed on the lower level. The collection suits visitors curious about daily life and craftsmanship in antiquity; those mainly seeking large classical sculptures can visit the Glyptothek across the square, which shares a ticket with this museum.
A museum for ancient objects
The Staatliche Antikensammlungen preserves Bavarian collections of antiquities from Greece, Etruria and Rome. The museum was founded in 1848 by King Ludwig I, whose collecting included Attic vases and ancient gold jewellery. Its holdings formed part of the Bavarian royal collections.
The museum stands on Königsplatz in Munich’s Kunstareal. Architect Georg Friedrich Ziebland designed its neoclassical building, which has Corinthian columns. Across the square, the Glyptothek focuses on sculpture, so the two museums offer different ways to explore ancient art.
What to look for in the galleries
The collection centres on smaller works rather than monumental sculpture. Look for painted ceramics, glass objects, coins, bronze, jewellery and precious gems from the Greek, Etruscan and Roman worlds. The pottery gives a close look at the decoration and practical objects of ancient life.
On the lower level, seek out the Fayum mummy portrait. Another highlighted object is an ancient Greek vessel painted by Exekias, showing a galley and dolphins. The displays also include copies of some works, while originals may be held at the Glyptothek.
Planning a visit
Allow time for the lower level as well as the main galleries. The museum is closed on Mondays and stays open later on Wednesdays than on its other listed opening days. Tickets in advance are recommended. Sunday admission is noted as €1 in the supplied visitor information, but check the museum’s current ticket details before travelling.
Backpacks and outerwear must be left at the entrance or placed in the paid cloakroom. The museum has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, lift and restroom. If you want to compare the collection with ancient sculpture, the Glyptothek is directly across the square and is included with the same ticket.
FAQ
What can you see at the Staatliche Antikensammlungen?
The collection includes ancient Greek, Etruscan and Roman pottery, glass, coins, bronze, jewellery and gems. A Fayum mummy portrait is displayed on the lower level.
Is the Glyptothek included on the same ticket?
Yes. The supplied information says the Staatliche Antikensammlungen and the Glyptothek across the square are included on one ticket.
How much is admission on Sunday?
The supplied visitor information lists Sunday admission at €1. Check current ticket details before your visit.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
The listed facilities include a wheelchair-accessible entrance, lift and restroom.
