The Museumsinsel is German for 'Museum Island'. It can be described as a social phenomenon that has its roots in the Age of Enlightenment that spread its tentacles to all Europe, and more specifically to the French People who initiated the French Revolution.
The Museumsinsel is German for 'Museum Island'. It can be described as a social phenomenon that has its roots in the Age of Enlightenment that spread its tentacles to all Europe, and more specifically to the French People who initiated the French Revolution.
Its importance dates back to 1824-28 when the Altes Museum was constructed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel. To fully appreciate the importance of the Museumsinsel, check out the list of the five museum buildings that make up the complex.
The Altes Museum
This building is a two-storey structure that is built on a rectangular ground plan. Its exhibition rooms are ranged round two inner courts. It is also features a 2-storey domed rotunda with a skylight. The museum is accessed through a 7-bay wide stairway with broad stingers.
Neues Museum
Nues’ layout is similar to the Altes Museum but in in place of rotunda the museum has monumental main staircase. The museum was originally linked to the passageway that was designed in Schinkel School Style.
The Nationalgalerie
This museum is a high ashlar block like base with rectangular windows. The building is surmounted by a Corinthian pseudo-dipteral temple. The rear of the museum is a semicircular conch. It is by far the most beautiful of the structures, especially the pedimented porticos and Corinthian columns. It features symbolic imageries such as sculptures, paintings and reliefs. It also has a vast banquenting hall that has been converted into a display room.
The Bodemuseum
This is a neo-Baroque structure that occupies a commanding position on the northwestern tip of the island. It is clad in sandstone and rises two storeys. The building is linked by Corinthian pilasters and crowned with a balustrade.
The three-winged Pergamonmuseum
This museum was built to display the great collection of antiquities that were collected after the Germans excavated the Pergamon and other Greek Sites in Asia Minor.
As a traveler to this destination, you will certainly get more than your money’s worth. It will be a step into the past, both in terms antiquities and paintings, as well as architectural styles. Whatever else you do during your German tour, make sure you get a chance to explore this museum complex.