Erwin Von Kreibig Museum

Erwin von Kreibig Museum Munich: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: The Significance of the Erwin von Kreibig Museum

Located within the historic and striking Nymphenburg Palace complex, the Erwin von Kreibig Museum is a distinctive destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts. The museum is dedicated to Erwin von Kreibig (1904–1961), an acclaimed Munich-born painter, graphic artist, and stage designer whose creative journey paralleled the city’s vibrant cultural evolution during the early to mid-20th century.

Kreibig’s artistic legacy is deeply intertwined with Munich’s Schwabing district, a hub for artistic innovation and bohemian life. His expressive works—ranging from sculpture and painting to illustration and design—mirror both personal and political upheavals, including the tumult of exile and the suppression of modernist art during the Nazi era. Today, the museum preserves and showcases Kreibig’s oeuvre, situating it within the broader context of Munich’s cultural history and the architectural grandeur of Nymphenburg Palace’s southern rotunda.

Visitors to the museum can experience a curated selection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and costume designs, as well as rotating exhibitions that link Kreibig’s legacy to contemporary artistic currents. The setting provides a seamless blend of modern art and Baroque architecture, and the museum’s proximity to other key sites such as the Marstallmuseum, Museum Mensch und Natur, and the palace park makes it an ideal spot for a comprehensive cultural outing.

For the most accurate information and planning tools, consult the Kreibig Museum Official Site and Nymphenburg Palace Official Website.

Discover the Museum: Highlights and Unique Offerings
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Location, Accessibility
Getting There: Transport and Directions
Erwin von Kreibig: Life and Legacy
Museum Collections and Exhibitions
Architectural and Cultural Context
Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries
Special Events, Tours, and Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit: Summary and Essential Resources

Discover the Erwin von Kreibig Museum

Set within the southern rotunda of Nymphenburg Palace, the Erwin von Kreibig Museum provides an immersive experience in 20th-century German art. The museum’s galleries invite visitors to engage with Kreibig’s artistic journey, from his early days as a woodcarver to his later achievements as a painter and illustrator, many of which reflect both innovation and resilience in the face of adversity.

Key Highlights

Comprehensive Collection: Original paintings, graphics, illustrations, and stage designs by Kreibig.
Thematic Exhibitions: Rotating displays and collaborations with contemporary artists.
Intimate Setting: Thoughtful gallery design enhances quiet reflection and close engagement with the works.
Historical Context: The museum’s location within a Baroque architectural masterpiece adds depth to the visitor experience.

Visiting Information: Plan Your Visit

Address: Südliches Schloßrondell 1, 80638 Munich, Germany
Location: Southern Rotunda, Nymphenburg Palace Complex

Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed Mondays and major public holidays
(Note: Seasonal variations or special events may affect hours. Confirm on the official website before your visit.)

Tickets:

Adults: €7–8
Reduced: €4–5 (students, seniors)
Children/Youth under 18: Free
Sundays: Special €1 admission at many Munich museums, including this one (Timeout Munich Travel Tips)
Group rates and guided tour packages available by advance arrangement

Accessibility:

Wheelchair accessible with prior notice; accessible restrooms available
Multilingual signage and audio guides provided in German and English

Guided Tours:

Available upon request; advanced booking recommended via the official website

Getting There

Public Transport: Tram line 17 and bus 51 serve the Nymphenburg Palace stop. The journey from Munich’s city center takes about 20 minutes.
By Car: Parking is available near the palace but is limited, especially on weekends.
By Bicycle: Bike racks are provided near the museum entrance.
Nearby U-Bahn: Universität and Münchner Freiheit stations are within walking distance (World Guides: Munich Art Galleries).

About Erwin von Kreibig: Life and Artistic Legacy

Born in Schwabing, Munich’s artistic heart, Erwin von Kreibig’s career began with wood and metal sculpture at the Städtische Gewerbeschule and under Eugen Ehrenböck. He later studied costume design under Richard Riemerschmid at the Kunstgewerbeschule, shaping his multidisciplinary approach (Verlorene Generation: Erwin von Kreibig Biography).

Kreibig’s first major exhibition was held in 1930 at the Galerie der „Juryfreien“, establishing his reputation for expressive drawing and social commentary. The advent of National Socialism led to his art being labeled “degenerate” and threatened with destruction—a fate he narrowly avoided thanks to supportive gallery staff. Exile in Ibiza, Mallorca, and Sanremo enriched his creative vision. After World War II, Kreibig returned to Munich, resuming his artistic activity and receiving honors such as the inaugural Schwabing Art Prize for Painting in 1961.

The museum honors both his achievements and the resilience of artists who endured persecution.

Museum Collections and Exhibitions

Permanent Collection

Paintings and Drawings: Works such as “Tanzabend Manda von Kreibig” (1923) demonstrate Kreibig’s mastery of line and movement (Verlorene Generation: Erwin von Kreibig Biography).
Sculptures and Decorative Arts: Reliefs, bronzes, and applied art pieces illustrate his cross-disciplinary skill.
Graphic Works: Sketches and illustrations, including contributions to journals like Simplicissimus, Jugend, and Eulenspiegel, capture the spirit of early 20th-century Munich (annees-de-pelerinage.com).
Costume and Set Designs: Watercolors and maquettes highlight his role in theatrical collaborations.

Temporary Exhibitions

The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions on themes such as the “lost generation” of artists, the impact of political turmoil on art, and the intersection of visual arts with theater and design. Collaborative projects with other museums deepen the narrative and offer fresh perspectives (Verlorene Generation: Erwin von Kreibig Biography).

Archival Resources

Letters, photographs, catalogs, and personal artifacts provide context for Kreibig’s life, enriching the visitor’s understanding and supporting academic research.

Architectural and Cultural Context

The museum’s setting in the Baroque southern rotunda, designed by Joseph Effner, provides a dramatic and elegant backdrop to Kreibig’s modernist works. The contrast of historical architecture and 20th-century art enhances the impact of both, creating an immersive and contemplative atmosphere.

Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries

Nymphenburg Palace Main Building: Explore the royal state rooms and apartments.
Marstallmuseum: Historical carriages and sleighs.
Museum Mensch und Natur: Interactive natural history exhibits.
Nymphenburg Porcelain Museum: One of the world’s most renowned porcelain collections.
Munich Botanical Garden: Adjacent to the palace park, perfect for a post-museum stroll (annees-de-pelerinage.com).

Special Events, Tours, and Visitor Tips

Special Events: The museum organizes workshops, talks, and exhibition openings—check the official website for the latest schedule.
Guided Tours: Group and educational tours are available by arrangement.
Photography: Allowed in most areas without flash; restrictions may apply for temporary exhibitions.
Family-Friendly: The museum’s quiet setting and manageable size make it suitable for families, especially those with an interest in art and history.
Facilities: Restrooms and cloakroom available; cafés in the palace complex provide refreshments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (confirm for seasonal adjustments).

Q: How much are tickets?
A: €7–8 for adults, reduced rates for students and seniors, free for those under 18. €1 entry on Sundays at many museums (Timeout Munich Travel Tips).

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with prior notice; accessible restrooms are available.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by advance booking.

Q: Can I combine my visit with other attractions?
A: Absolutely—combine with Nymphenburg Palace, Marstallmuseum, and the Botanical Garden for a full day.

Q: Is photography permitted?
A: Non-flash photography is generally allowed; always check signage.

Plan Your Visit: Summary

The Erwin von Kreibig Museum is a compelling destination for those seeking to understand Munich’s rich 20th-century artistic heritage. Its thoughtfully curated exhibitions, accessible services, and prime palace setting offer a rewarding and peaceful cultural experience. Use public transport for convenience, and allow time to explore the palace and gardens for a complete day out.