Old Museum

The Altes Museum in Berlin, an architectural jewel on Museum Island, stands as a showcase of neoclassical design and cultural resilience. Designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel and built between 1825 and 1830, it was originally known as the Königliches Museum. Its eighteen imposing Ionic columns give the entrance a regal presence. Initially, the museum housed the art collection of the Prussian royal family.

During World War II, it suffered heavy damage and was largely gutted by fire. Post-war efforts led to its reconstruction and restoration, preserving both its architecture and historical importance. During the Cold War, the museum was located in the GDR zone and served as an exhibition space for contemporary East German art, reflecting the political and cultural context of the era. After German reunification, the museum was once again transformed. Since 1998, the Altes Museum has been dedicated to antiquity, with a rich collection of artifacts.

The ground floor showcases Greek antiquities, while since July 2010 the upper floor displays Etruscan and Roman collections, offering a comprehensive view of classical civilizations. The museum also houses the Münzkabinett, a renowned coin collection. The Egyptian collection, once part of the Altes Museum, was moved to the Neues Museum in 2009 to allow for a more specialized presentation. Next to the museum lies the Lustgarten, once the garden of the Berliner Stadtschloss.