The New Museum (Neues Museum), also known as the State Museum for Art and Design, is Nuremberg’s premier showcase for contemporary art from the 1950s to today. Explore exhibitions that link innovations in modern design with painting, sculpture and photography from the last century. Follow timelines and trends in art and design in this intriguing contemporary edifice. Appreciate its magnificent architecture.
As you enter the courtyard fronting the New Museum, be awed by the building’s monumental 330-foot (100-meter) curved glass façade. This concave wall of enormous glass panels reflects the varied heritage architecture of neighboring buildings, while allowing visitors to glimpse the spiral staircase and modern exhibits within. The building was designed by the architect Volker Staab and was unveiled in 2000.
Walk into the foyer and discover a series of galleries dedicated to art and design, spanning 32,000 square feet (3,000 square meters) of exhibition space. In the museum’s art collection, you’ll find a variety of post-1945 artworks. The museum has a particular focus on abstract geometrics and pieces by Eastern European artists. Explore installations and video artworks from the museum’s holdings and find out what’s showing in the temporary exhibition galleries.
Make your way to the design area to explore exhibits that are coordinated with the Design Museum in Munich. See stunning examples of rare, collectible and everyday design items from the 20th century. Visit the New Museum’s shop to pick up souvenirs, gifts and books on art and design. Step outside to enjoy refreshments at one of the dining spots on the square in front of the museum.
The New Museum is located in the southeastern corner of Nuremberg’s Old Town, a short distance inside the medieval city walls. Reach the museum by walking less than 5 minutes from the city’s main railway station. Nearby, you’ll find a sculpture garden and the fascinating medieval time capsule of the Handwerkerhof craft workshops. The museum is closed on Mondays. Visit on Sunday for a discounted admission fee.
