close-up of masonry structure at Mousonturm Frankfurt

Künstlerhaus Mousonturm

Künstlerhaus Mousonturm Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Frankfurt Historical Sites

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: A Fusion of Industrial Heritage and Contemporary Culture

Located in Frankfurt’s vibrant Ostend district, Künstlerhaus Mousonturm is a striking example of adaptive reuse, where the city’s industrial legacy converges with its dynamic contemporary arts scene. Originally constructed between 1921 and 1926 as the stair tower and factory complex of the J.G. Mouson company, the building is celebrated for its German Expressionist architecture and status as Frankfurt’s first high-rise (KulturRegion FrankfurtRheinMain). After industrial operations ceased in the early 1980s, the site was restored and reopened in 1988 as a multidisciplinary arts venue. Today, Mousonturm stands out as a vital hub for avant-garde performance, international artistic exchange, and community engagement in the broader FrankfurtRheinMain region (Künstlerhaus Mousonturm Official Website).

Whether you are an art lover, history enthusiast, or traveler exploring Frankfurt historical sites, this guide provides essential information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, programming, and nearby attractions, helping you make the most of your visit (de.wikipedia.org).

Red brick masonry wall of Mousonturm in Frankfurt

Romuald Karmakar filmmaker after screening of docu Denk ich an Deutschland in der Nacht on Techno and Electronic Music at 10th Lichter Filmfest in Mousonturm Frankfurt

Origins and Architectural Significance
Transition to Cultural Venue
Role in Regional and International Arts
Visiting Information (Hours, Tickets, Accessibility)
Notable Events and Artistic Legacy
Community Engagement
Programming and Special Events
Visitor Experience and Facilities
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
FAQs
Conclusion and Further Resources

Origins and Architectural Significance

Künstlerhaus Mousonturm’s roots trace back to the late 18th century with the J.G. Mouson company, which became renowned for luxury soaps and perfumes. By the early 20th century, their Ostend factory complex included the now-iconic stair tower, designed by Fritz Mouson between 1921 and 1926. The building’s expressive brickwork, steel-frame construction, and vertical lines embody the optimism and innovation of the Weimar Republic and the German Expressionist movement. The tower’s prominence marked it as a symbol of industrial progress and urban ambition, earning its place as Frankfurt’s first high-rise (KulturRegion FrankfurtRheinMain).

Transition from Industrial Site to Cultural Venue

After ceasing operations in the early 1980s, the Mouson factory was recognized for its architectural and historical value. A careful restoration by Albert Speer & Partner in 1988 preserved Expressionist elements and adapted the building for artistic use. Reopened as Künstlerhaus Mousonturm, it became one of Germany’s first production houses for contemporary performing arts, setting a precedent for the creative transformation of industrial spaces (KulturRegion FrankfurtRheinMain; frankfurt.de).

Role in Regional and International Arts

Since its transformation, Mousonturm has evolved into a leading venue for avant-garde theater, dance, music, and interdisciplinary performance, supporting both emerging and established artists. It is a key member of the KulturRegion FrankfurtRheinMain and the Bündnis internationaler Produktionshäuser, facilitating cross-border collaborations and contributing to Frankfurt’s reputation as a center for progressive culture (shift.jp.org; fr.de).

Notably, Mousonturm is home to the annual “Starke Stücke” festival, an international highlight for children’s and youth theater, and hosts a diverse array of festivals, workshops, and educational initiatives (Starke Stücke Festival).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Address: Waldschmidtstraße 4, 60316 Frankfurt am Main
Public Transport: U-Bahn (Zoo station, lines U6/U7), tram and bus lines (Ostbahnhof, Mousonturm stops)
Parking: Limited street parking; public transport is recommended (Mousonturm Contact & Directions)

Opening Hours

Box Office: Opens one hour before each event.
General Hours: The venue is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with variations depending on performances. Closed on Mondays.
Guided Tours: Offered periodically or by appointment; check the official website for details.

Ticket Information

Pricing: Typically ranges from €10–€30, with discounts for students, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Booking: Purchase online via the Mousonturm website, at the box office, or through Reservix.
Advance Booking: Recommended for popular events and festivals.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and designated seating.
Surtitles and assistance available for visitors with hearing or visual impairments upon request (Mousonturm Accessibility).

Notable Events and Artistic Legacy

Mousonturm’s multidisciplinary programming includes theater, dance, music, and performance art, with a reputation for experimental, boundary-pushing productions. The venue has hosted acclaimed international artists and ensembles, such as Mogwai, Tortoise, The Low Anthem, and Die Goldenen Zitronen (Concert Archives). Signature events include the “Starke Stücke” festival, the Mouson-Award for choreography, and the “Grandmothers of the Future” series.

Facilities include multiple theater spaces, rehearsal studios, exhibition rooms, artist apartments, and the Hessisches Literaturforum (dieter-buroch.net). The venue also provides residencies and supports artistic development through workshops and labs.

Community Engagement and Educational Initiatives

Mousonturm is deeply invested in outreach and education, offering workshops, artist talks, and creative projects for children, youth, and marginalized groups. Programs like the Junge Theaterwerkstatt and Super Saturday events foster participation and inspire new generations. The presence of the Hessisches Literaturforum broadens its scope to include literature and interdisciplinary dialogue (Starke Stücke Festival; de.wikipedia.org).

Programming and Special Events

Theatre and Performance Art

Presenting international collaborations and experimental works, Mousonturm is a platform for immersive, genre-defying productions such as “Enter Ghost. Frankfurter Séance” and “Nowhere is a Place.”

Dance and Choreography

As a leading stage for contemporary dance, Mousonturm supports freelance artists, awards the Mouson-Award, and hosts the Deutscher Produzentenpreis für Choreographie.

Music and Concerts

The music program spans genres from experimental to world music and jazz. Upcoming highlights for 2025 include:

Altın Gün (July 15)
Rebeca Lane & Audry Funk (July 22)
Galliano (July 29)
Bonaparte (August 12)

Festivals and Workshops

Annual festivals like Super Saturday and Grandmothers of the Future explore youth theater and intergenerational themes. Workshops and residencies nurture local and international talent.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Atmosphere: Informal, creative, and inclusive, attracting a diverse audience.
Foyer and Bar: A lively space for gathering, with drinks and light snacks.
Accessibility: Step-free entry, accessible restrooms, and assistance for visitors with special needs.
Family Programs: The Junge Theaterwerkstatt offers workshops and performances for young audiences (Mousonturm Junge Theaterwerkstatt).
Language: Many events are in German, but international productions and English surtitles are common (Mousonturm Events).
Photography: Not permitted during performances; allowed in public areas.
Wi-Fi: Free in foyer and public spaces.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Enhance your visit with these nearby sites:

Frankfurt Zoo: Ideal for families (Timeout Frankfurt).
Berger Straße: A lively street with shops and cafés.
Museumsufer: The museum district along the Main River (The Crazy Tourist).
Museum Angewandte Kunst: A short distance away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via Mousonturm website, at the box office, or through Reservix.

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes, including wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, and assistance for various needs.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Available by appointment; check the website for details.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Primarily during events, with the box office opening one hour before performances.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Not during performances, but permitted in the foyer and public spaces.

Visuals and Media

Explore images and virtual tours on the official website to preview the building’s architecture, flexible spaces, and energetic events. Alt text includes keywords like “Künstlerhaus Mousonturm visiting hours,” “tickets,” and “Frankfurt historical sites.”

Contact and Further Information

Address: Waldschmidtstraße 4, 60316 Frankfurt am Main
Phone: +49 (0)69 405 895 0
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.mousonturm.de

Check the website for current event schedules, ticketing, health guidelines, and accessibility (Mousonturm Accessibility).

COVID-19 and Sustainability

Mousonturm maintains health and hygiene protocols as needed and pursues sustainability through waste reduction and energy-efficient practices. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport and reusable containers.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Künstlerhaus Mousonturm encapsulates Frankfurt’s journey from industrial powerhouse to creative metropolis. Its innovative programming, inclusive facilities, and rich historical setting offer a unique cultural experience at the intersection of past and present. For the most current information on visiting hours, tickets, and events, visit the official Mousonturm website and consider downloading the Audiala app for personalized updates. Stay connected with Frankfurt’s vibrant arts community by following Mousonturm on social media.

Discover Künstlerhaus Mousonturm—where heritage meets the avant-garde.