Museum Fünf Kontinente

Museum Fünf Kontinente on Maximilianstraße is one of Germany's oldest and largest ethnological museums. Known for decades under its former name, the Völkerkundemuseum, the museum presents art and everyday objects from Africa, Asia, the Americas and Oceania, inviting visitors to explore the world's cultural diversity beyond Europe.

History of Museum Fünf Kontinente

The museum was founded in 1862, based on royal Bavarian collections that were steadily expanded through research expeditions, purchases and donations over the course of the 19th century. In 2014 the museum adopted its current name, Museum Fünf Kontinente ("Museum of Five Continents"), to better reflect the global scope of its collection and move away from terminology rooted in the colonial era.

Collection & Highlights

The collection comprises several hundred thousand objects, a portion of which are shown in rotating permanent and special exhibitions, including elaborate masks, textiles, religious objects and everyday items from a wide range of cultures. The museum places particular emphasis on incorporating contemporary perspectives and critically examining its own collecting history.

Visitor Tips & Getting There

The museum is centrally located on Maximilianstraße, an easy walk from Marienplatz or the National Theatre. Current opening hours, admission prices and details on special exhibitions should be checked on the official website in advance.

Nearby Attractions

The elegant Maximilianstraße, with its shops and the National Theatre, lies right outside, and the Residenz and Marienplatz are also within a few minutes' walk, making it easy to combine the museum visit with a stroll through the old town.