New artist home at Königstor in Nuremberg

Künstlerhaus Nürnberg

Künstlerhaus Nürnberg: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Künstlerhaus Nürnberg is one of Nuremberg’s most significant cultural landmarks, located at the gateway to the historic Altstadt. With a history spanning over a century, the Künstlerhaus has evolved from its origins as a guild house for artists into a vibrant multidisciplinary arts center. Visitors to the Künstlerhaus can expect a dynamic blend of historic architecture, contemporary exhibitions, diverse events, and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. This guide provides an in-depth look at the venue’s history, visiting information, accessibility, programming, and tips for making the most of your visit (NN.de; KunstKulturQuartier).

Historic view of Königstor (King's Gate) in Nürnberg in 1919

Historical photograph of Königstor Künstlerheim in Nürnberg, 1914

Colorized historical photo of Künstlerhaus in Nürnberg on Königstorgraben street

Historic photo of Nürnberg showing Königstor and Grand Hotel in 1947

Historical black and white photo of Nürnberg Königstor gate from the outside in 1915

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Years

The vision for an artist’s guild house in Nuremberg dates back to 1867, but it was only in the early 20th century that the project took shape. Thanks to the support of prominent local patrons, including Jewish entrepreneurs such as Ludwig von Gerngros and Joseph Hopf, and under the design of architect Otto Seegy, the Künstlerhaus was constructed on the site of the former Salzstadel at Königstraße and Königstorgraben (NN.de). Officially opened in 1910, the building symbolized a bridge between tradition and innovation, and quickly became a prestigious home for the city’s artists.

The Nazi Era and Postwar Transformation

During the Nazi regime, the Künstlerhaus was repurposed as a tool for the suppression of avant-garde art and became infamous for its “Schreckenskammer” (chamber of horrors) of so-called “degenerate art” (NN.de). After World War II, the American Red Cross used the building as an officers’ club, the “Americana Club,” until 1955. In subsequent decades, the Künstlerhaus hosted educational institutions before returning to its artistic mission in the late 1960s.

The KOMM Era and Cultural Renaissance

The establishment of the “KOMM” (Kommunikationszentrum) in 1973 marked a pioneering era for self-managed, municipally funded youth and cultural centers in Germany (Wikipedia: KOMM (Nürnberg)). KOMM became a hub for music, art, political activism, and social engagement, embodying the progressive spirit of the 1970s and 1980s. Despite political controversies, KOMM’s legacy endures in the participatory ethos of today’s Künstlerhaus.

Recent Renovations and Modern Identity

A major renovation completed between 2019 and 2024 has ensured barrier-free accessibility, preserved historical features, and added contemporary elements such as the glass cube and a new main entrance (Afasia Archzine; Stadt Nürnberg: Pressemitteilung). The Künstlerhaus now forms part of the KunstKulturQuartier, Nuremberg’s central arts cluster, and is home to a diverse range of exhibitions, performances, workshops, and festivals (KunstKulturQuartier).

Visiting Information

Location and Getting There

Künstlerhaus Nürnberg
Königstraße 93, 90402 Nürnberg

The venue sits opposite the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and at the entrance to the Old Town near the Königstor gate. The location is easily accessible by S-Bahn, U-Bahn, tram, and bus, with several parking garages nearby for those arriving by car (Künstlerhaus Nürnberg – Termine.de). Public transport is recommended due to central city parking limitations.

Opening Hours

Kunsthaus (Exhibition Space):
- Tuesday, Thursday–Sunday: 11:00–18:00
- Wednesday: 11:00–20:00
- Monday: Closed
- Public holidays: 11:00–18:00
  (KPZ Nürnberg)
Other Facilities: Event and cinema opening times vary. Always check the official event calendar.

Tickets and Admission

Entry to most public areas and exhibitions is free.
Special exhibitions, concerts, theater, and film screenings are ticketed, with prices typically ranging from €5 to €20.
Tickets are available online via the KunstKulturQuartier webshop, by phone at +49 (0)911 231-27815, or at the box office.
Cinema tickets can be purchased at the Filmhaus Café.

Accessibility

The entire venue has been renovated for barrier-free access, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms (KunstKulturQuartier – Geschichte des Hauses).
Visitors with special needs are encouraged to contact the venue in advance for individualized support.

Programming and Events

The Künstlerhaus offers a dynamic and cross-disciplinary program throughout the year:

Art Exhibitions: Rotating displays of contemporary visual art, photography, and socially engaged projects (KunstKulturQuartier – Programm).
Film Screenings: Independent and international cinema, with festivals such as the Human Rights Film Festival and Turkey/Germany Film Festival (Regioactive).
Concerts and Music Festivals: From jazz and blues in the Kulturgarten to pop, rock, and DJ nights at Café Kaya and KulturKellerei (Songkick – Nuremberg Events).
Theater, Literature, and Workshops: Readings, performances, open studios, and creative workshops for all ages and skill levels.
Family and Children’s Programs: Family festivals, participatory activities, and children’s theater (Familienmesse.com).
Special Events: Guided tours, artist talks, and festivals like the annual Sommerfest and Future Fashion Festival (nordbayern.de: Future Fashion Festival).

Facilities and Visitor Services

Exhibition and event halls: Multiple flexible spaces for art and performance (Regioactive).
Cafés and Bars: Zentralcafé and outdoor Kulturgarten for refreshments and informal gatherings.
Workshops: Facilities for ceramics, stone carving, and printmaking.
Cinema: Multiple screens for arthouse and festival films.
Lockers, cloakroom, and free Wi-Fi.
Multilingual staff offer assistance in German and English.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring other nearby historical and cultural sites:

Germanisches Nationalmuseum: Germany’s largest museum of cultural history.
Handwerkerhof: Artisan quarter with traditional crafts.
Nürnberg Castle: Iconic fortress overlooking the city.
Altstadt (Old Town): Medieval streets, shops, and cafés.

The Künstlerhaus’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for a walking tour of Nuremberg’s rich cultural heritage (Tourismus Nürnberg; Wanderingermany).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Check the schedule: The program changes frequently; consult the event calendar.
Reserve tickets in advance for popular events and workshops.
Arrive early for major events and festivals.
Photography is permitted in most areas; follow any exhibition-specific rules.
Combine your visit with other Nuremberg attractions for a full cultural experience.
Language: Most events are in German; some offer English translation or materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Künstlerhaus Nürnberg visiting hours?
A: The Kunsthaus exhibition space is open Tuesday, Thursday–Sunday from 11:00 to 18:00, Wednesdays until 20:00, and closed on Mondays. Other areas and events have individual schedules.

Q: Are there entry fees?
A: Most exhibitions are free; special events require tickets (€5–€20). Check event details for pricing.

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes, the Künstlerhaus is barrier-free, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I book guided tours?
A: Guided tours are available periodically. Contact the venue for schedules and registration.

Q: How do I reach the Künstlerhaus by public transport?
A: The venue is opposite Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof, served by all major train, tram, and U-Bahn lines.

Contact and Further Information

Künstlerhaus Nürnberg
Königstraße 93
90402 Nürnberg
Phone: +49 (0)911 231-27815
Contact form | Official website | Event Calendar

Stay up-to-date by following Künstlerhaus Nürnberg on social media and download the Audiala app for audio guides, event notifications, and insider content.

Visual and Interactive Resources

High-resolution images of the Künstlerhaus exterior and main halls (alt text: “Künstlerhaus Nürnberg exterior,” “Künstlerhaus Nürnberg exhibition hall”).
Photos of events and the Kulturgarten.
Interactive map showing proximity to other Nürnberg historical sites (Künstlerhaus Nürnberg – Hikersbay).
Links to virtual tours and multimedia resources via the KunstKulturQuartier site.

Key Takeaways

The Künstlerhaus Nürnberg is a historic and contemporary arts center with barrier-free access and a diverse year-round program.
Located at Königstraße 93, it is easily reached by all forms of public transport.
Entry to most exhibitions is free; special events require tickets.
The venue offers workshops, film screenings, concerts, and family-friendly activities.
Its central location makes it a gateway to exploring Nuremberg’s other historical and cultural attractions.

Whether you’re an art aficionado, a history enthusiast, or a family seeking a memorable day out, the Künstlerhaus Nürnberg offers a unique window into the creative and communal spirit of the city.