State Collection of Antiquities

Facing the Glyptothek on the opposite side of Königsplatz stands the Staatliche Antikensammlungen (State Collections of Antiquities) Munich - one of Germany's most important museums of ancient decorative art. While the Glyptothek is dedicated to monumental sculpture, the Antikensammlungen focuses on smaller, often intricate objects: Greek vases, gold jewelry, bronzes and terracottas from Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquity. The neoclassical building, with its Corinthian-columned facade, forms a harmonious architectural ensemble with the Glyptothek and the Propyläen gateway on Königsplatz.

History of the Staatliche Antikensammlungen

The building was constructed between 1838 and 1848 to designs by Georg Friedrich Ziebland, again commissioned by King Ludwig I, whose passion for antiquity shaped the entire Kunstareal district around Königsplatz. The collection itself grew out of various royal and private collections that were consolidated over the course of the 19th century and has since been continually expanded through acquisitions and donations.

Collection & Highlights

The museum is world-renowned above all for its vase collection, one of the most extensive and highest-quality of its kind outside Greece, featuring outstanding examples of black-figure and red-figure Attic pottery. The museum also displays a significant collection of ancient gold jewelry, small bronze figurines and Etruscan grave goods. The compact but exceptionally high-caliber exhibition offers an intensive insight into the everyday life, mythology and craftsmanship of antiquity.

Visitor Tips & Getting There

Like the Glyptothek, the Antikensammlungen is conveniently reached via the Königsplatz U-Bahn stop or on foot from the main train station. Since both museums face each other directly, a combined visit in a single day is recommended. Current opening hours and admission prices should be checked on the official website beforehand.

Nearby Attractions

Directly opposite stands the Glyptothek with its sculpture collection, and Königsplatz itself, framed by the monumental Propyläen, invites a short stroll. The Lenbachhaus and the Pinakothek museums are also just a few minutes' walk away, making it easy to plan an entire museum day in the Kunstareal.