State Collections of Antiquities (Antikensammlungen) - a table topped with lots of vases and rocks
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State Collections of Antiquities (Antikensammlungen)

4.4
·468 reviews·München, Germany

Elegant 19th-century hall showcasing a curated collection of decorative arts, ceramics, bronzes, and Fayum mummy portraits from ancient civilizations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Affordable entry fee

CrowdMedium
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State Collections of Antiquities (Antikensammlungen) - a table topped with lots of vases and rocks

State Collections of Antiquities (Antikensammlungen)

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Affordable entry fee

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Elegant 19th-century hall showcasing a curated collection of decorative arts, ceramics, bronzes, and Fayum mummy portraits from ancient civilizations.

4.4
(468 reviews)

"Packed with artifacts, ceramics, bronze, gold and precious gems, it's a great place to feel connected to people from 2000 years ago."

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TIP

🎯 Compare with Glyptothek

If you love sculptures, Glyptothek is across the square. This museum excels in ceramics & smaller artifacts.

💰 Sunday Entry Deal

Visit on Sundays for a significantly reduced entry fee, often just 1 euro!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fayum Mummy Portraits

Fayum Mummy Portraits

Lower level

Discover some of the most beautiful and haunting Fayum mummy portraits, offering a glimpse into ancient Egyptian life.

Ancient Ceramics Collection

Ancient Ceramics Collection

Exhibition halls

Explore a fascinating array of ancient pottery, showcasing the artistry and daily life of past civilizations.

Bronze and Gold Artifacts

Bronze and Gold Artifacts

Exhibition halls

Marvel at intricate bronze work and precious gold items, reflecting the wealth and craftsmanship of ancient cultures.

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Planning Your Visit

Manage Expectations for a Focused Experience

This museum offers a curated collection of decorative arts and artifacts, not grand statues. If you're seeking extensive classical sculptures, the Glyptothek nearby is a better fit. It's ideal for those passionate about ancient ceramics, bronzes, and smaller treasures.

Consider Sunday for Budget Visits

On Sundays, the entrance fee can be as low as 1 euro, making it a very affordable option. Be prepared for a basic cloakroom system; consider if the 1 euro fee for jackets is worth it for your comfort.

Best Times

When
Sunday mornings
Why
Affordable entry fee
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, quieter visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The 1 of 1 national treasure agate cup kept in the special display room in the Shaanxi History Museum is human ingenuity and artistry at its finest. It’s from 1300 years ago buried in the Tang Dynasty. We still don’t know who buried it, remains a mystery. #history #storytime #artifact #museum #treasurehunt #gold #archaeology #themonkeykang #art
@themonkeykang
152K likes • 2.4M views

🎯 Compare with Glyptothek

If you love sculptures, Glyptothek is across the square. This museum excels in ceramics & smaller artifacts. Reddit

💰 Sunday Entry Deal

Visit on Sundays for a significantly reduced entry fee, often just 1 euro! Reddit

🎒 Cloakroom Costs

Be aware of the 1 euro fee for the cloakroom. Open hangers are available but not secured. Reddit

🧒 Engage Kids (10+)

Great for kids aged 10+ who are studying ancient history; makes lessons tangible. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Compare with Glyptothek

If you love sculptures, Glyptothek is across the square. This museum excels in ceramics & smaller artifacts. Reddit

💰 Sunday Entry Deal

Visit on Sundays for a significantly reduced entry fee, often just 1 euro! Reddit

🎒 Cloakroom Costs

Be aware of the 1 euro fee for the cloakroom. Open hangers are available but not secured. Reddit

🧒 Engage Kids (10+)

Great for kids aged 10+ who are studying ancient history; makes lessons tangible. Reddit

🤫 Be Mindful of Noise

The building can amplify sound. If staff are chatty, politely mention it to ensure a peaceful visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(468 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the State Collections of Antiquities for its excellent and first-class collection of ancient ceramics, bronzes, and Fayum mummy portraits, offering a deep connection to the past. However, some find the exhibition space limited compared to other museums and note that the building's acoustics can lead to noise issues.

"There’s not much to see compared to other museums in the city. The exhibition space feels somewhat limited, and if you’re expecting large statues or grand displays, you might be disappointed.

For those deeply interested in ancient ceramics and smaller artifacts, it could be worth a visit. However, if you’re looking for a more extensive collection of classical art, the Glyptothek across the square—focused on ancient sculptures—might be a better option, like the one opposite."

Wesley Wong

"Not so popular as the Glyptothek across the square but packed with artefacts, ceramics, bronze, gold and precious gems. In the lower level you will find displayed one of the most beautiful Fayum mummy portraits."

Bozhidar Dimitrov

"Great place to discover lovely ancient pottery and art to feel the connection to the folks just like you and me only 2000 years ago.
Also great to go with kids aged 10+ and shush their excitement about seeing what they just studied at school."

Xenia Suhanova

What People Like

Excellent artifact collection
Fayum mummy portraits
Connection to past

What People Dislike

Limited exhibition space
Building acoustics

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The State Collections of Antiquities (Antikensammlungen) is conveniently located in Munich, Germany, directly across from the Glyptothek. You can easily reach it via public transport. The nearest U-Bahn (subway) station is Königsplatz (U2 line), which is just a short walk away. Several bus lines also stop near Königsplatz. Reddit

Parking in the Königsplatz area can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to reach the museum. If you must drive, look for public parking garages in the vicinity, but be prepared for higher costs. Reddit

Information regarding wheelchair accessibility can vary. It's best to check the official museum website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date details on ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Reddit

Opening hours can change seasonally and may differ on public holidays. Typically, the museum is open during regular daytime hours. Always check the official website for the most current opening times before your visit. Reddit

Photography policies can differ. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, but it's crucial to look for signage within the museum or ask staff for clarification to avoid any issues. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Standard admission fees apply, but there are often special offers. Notably, on Sundays, the entrance fee is significantly reduced, often to just 1 euro, making it a very budget-friendly option. Reddit

For general admission, booking tickets in advance is usually not required, especially during off-peak times. However, if you are visiting with a large group or during special exhibitions, it might be advisable to check if advance booking is recommended or necessary. Reddit

Yes, besides the popular 1 euro Sunday entry, discounts may be available for students, seniors, or those with specific passes. Check the museum's official website for a comprehensive list of potential discounts and eligibility criteria. Reddit

Visitors are typically required to leave backpacks and outerwear at the entrance. There's a cloakroom service, which may incur a small fee (around 1 euro) for hanging items. Reddit

Guided tours might be offered, especially for specific exhibitions or by prior arrangement for groups. Inquire at the ticket desk or check the museum's website for schedules and booking information. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The museum houses an excellent collection of ancient decorative arts, including ceramics, bronze, gold, and precious gems. It's particularly known for its beautiful Fayum mummy portraits and ancient pottery. Reddit

Yes, it can be very engaging for children aged 10 and above, especially if they are studying ancient history. The tangible artifacts like pottery and jewelry can make lessons come alive. Reddit

A typical visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your level of interest. If you plan to thoroughly examine the ceramics, bronzes, and mummy portraits, allow ample time. Reddit

Crowd levels can vary. Weekends, especially Sundays due to the low entry fee, tend to be busier. Weekday afternoons are generally less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Reddit

The museum is housed in an elegant 19th-century hall. However, be aware that the building's acoustics can amplify sounds, so it might be a bit noisy if there are many visitors or if staff are talking loudly. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, smaller museums like the State Collections of Antiquities do not have extensive dining facilities. It's advisable to check their official website for any available cafe services. Reddit

The museum is located in a central area of Munich, close to Königsplatz. There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries in the surrounding streets offering a variety of cuisines. Reddit

Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into museum exhibition halls is not permitted to protect the artifacts. There might be designated areas where you can consume your own refreshments, but it's best to confirm this with museum staff. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Non-flash photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, always look for specific signage within the galleries or ask museum staff to confirm the current policy, as it can vary. Reddit

The main restriction is typically the prohibition of flash photography, as it can damage delicate artifacts over time. Tripods and selfie sticks might also be restricted. Reddit

The Fayum mummy portraits are incredibly photogenic due to their detail and expressiveness. The intricate bronze and gold artifacts also make for stunning close-up shots. Reddit

Yes, phone cameras are generally allowed for personal photography, provided flash is turned off and you are not obstructing other visitors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The State Collections of Antiquities can be a surprisingly engaging visit for families, particularly for children aged 10 and up who are studying ancient history. The tangible nature of the artifacts, such as ancient pottery, bronze items, and gold jewelry, can bring school lessons to life in a way that textbooks cannot. It offers a chance for kids to see and connect with the objects that people used thousands of years ago. Reddit

While the museum might not have interactive exhibits, the sheer detail and artistry in the Fayum mummy portraits can captivate young minds. Encourage them to look for details in the pottery designs or imagine who might have worn the gold pieces. It’s a great opportunity for a quieter, more focused cultural experience that complements broader historical learning. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the State Collections of Antiquities offers exceptional value, especially on Sundays when admission is often just 1 euro. This makes it one of the most affordable cultural experiences in Munich. Reddit

Be mindful of the small, additional fee for the cloakroom if you need to store outerwear or a bag. However, even with this minor cost, the overall expense for a visit remains very low. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in history without breaking the bank, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to other experiences or dining. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Fayum Mummy Portraits

One of the most striking features of the State Collections of Antiquities is its collection of Fayum mummy portraits. These remarkably preserved portraits, dating from the Roman period in Egypt, offer an intimate and lifelike glimpse into the faces of individuals from nearly two millennia ago. Painted on wood or linen using encaustic (hot wax) or tempera techniques, they were placed over the mummies' faces. The level of detail and the expressiveness captured by the artists are astonishing, making them a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

These portraits are not just historical artifacts; they are deeply personal representations of individuals. The variety in style, from idealized depictions to more realistic portrayals, provides insights into social status, artistic trends, and personal beliefs of the time. Seeing these faces up close can create a profound connection to the past, making them a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian culture and art. Reddit

Navigating the Collection: Beyond the Grand

The State Collections of Antiquities (Antikensammlungen) offers a more focused experience compared to museums with vast halls of monumental sculptures. Its strength lies in its curated selection of decorative arts, including exquisite ancient ceramics, intricate bronze work, and glittering gold artifacts. This makes it an ideal destination for those who appreciate the finer details of ancient craftsmanship and the everyday objects that tell stories of past lives. Reddit

Visitors who are deeply interested in the nuances of ancient pottery or the delicate artistry of smaller precious objects will find this museum particularly rewarding. While it may not feature the colossal statues found elsewhere, its collection provides a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. It’s a place where you can truly feel a connection to the people of the past through the objects they created and used. Reddit

For those planning a visit, it's helpful to set expectations. If your primary interest is classical sculpture, the Glyptothek across the square is the more appropriate choice. However, for a deeper dive into the world of ancient ceramics, bronzes, and personal adornments, the Antikensammlungen is an excellent and often overlooked gem. Reddit

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