Historical Background
The Rosengart Family Legacy
The origins of the Rosengart Collection trace back to Siegfried Rosengart (1894–1985), an influential Swiss art dealer, and his daughter Angela Rosengart. Their close personal and professional relationships with artists such as Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso—Klee dedicated works to Angela, and Picasso painted her portrait—make the collection uniquely personal (myswitzerland.com, hirschmatt-neustadt.ch).
From Private Collection to Public Museum
In 1992, Angela Rosengart established the Stiftung Rosengart Foundation to transition the collection from a private treasure to a public cultural asset. Initially, Picasso's works were displayed in a modest riverside museum, but an expanding collection and growing visitor interest necessitated a larger venue (nomads-travel-guide.com).
The Museum Building
In 2000, the Rosengart Foundation acquired the former Swiss National Bank building at Pilatusstrasse 10. This neoclassical landmark, originally designed in 1924, was transformed into a modern museum by architect Roger Diener. The grand banking hall now houses the main exhibits, while the former vault—retrofitted for conservation—displays sensitive works by Paul Klee (hirschmatt-neustadt.ch).
Collection Highlights
The Rosengart Collection features over 300 works by 23 artists, focusing on pivotal moments in Classical Modernism:
- Pablo Picasso 32 paintings and around 100 drawings, prints, and sculptures, predominantly from his later years. Notable works include “Jacqueline im Atelier” (1956) and “Notre Dame de Vie” (1969).
- Paul Klee Over 125 works, displayed chronologically to illustrate his evolving artistic style.
- Other Modern Masters The collection also includes pieces by Monet, Cézanne, Matisse, Chagall, Braque, Miró, Kandinsky, Modigliani, Renoir, Léger, Seurat, Pissarro, and Vuillard (myswitzerland.com).
Special exhibitions feature photography by David Douglas Duncan, providing an insider’s perspective on Picasso’s final years.
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
- April to October Daily, 10:00–18:00
- November to March Daily, 11:00–17:00
- Closed on Lucerne’s Carnival days Schmutziger Donnerstag, Güdismontag, Güdisdienstag (myswitzerland.com)
Tickets and Admission
- Adults CHF 18 (as of July 2025)
- Students CHF 16
- Children (under 7) Free
- Special rates Available for groups and school classes (holidify.com)
- Museum Pass The Lucerne Museum Pass (CHF 39 for access to ten museums over two days) is a cost-effective option (luzern.com)
Tickets are available at the museum or online through rosengart.ch.
Getting There
- Address Pilatusstrasse 10, 6003 Lucerne, Switzerland
- Public transport 3-minute walk from Lucerne main railway station; tram and bus stops nearby.
- Parking Paid parking in nearby garages; public transport is recommended due to the central location (myswitzerland.com).
Accessibility
- The entire museum is wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
- Assistance for visitors with special needs is available upon request.
Guided Tours and Educational Programs
- Audio guides Available in multiple languages.
- Private tours Arranged in advance via [email protected] (rosengart.ch).
- Children’s programs Includes “Children Guiding Children” (in German) and discovery bags for families (luzern.com).
Visitor Amenities
- Cloakroom For coats and bags.
- Museum shop Books, postcards, and souvenirs.
- Restrooms Accessible and available on all floors.
- No café onsite Several cafés and restaurants are nearby.
Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your visit by exploring other Lucerne highlights within walking distance:
- Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge, adorned with historic paintings (travelbestplan.com).
- Jesuit Church Renowned for its Baroque architecture.
- Lucerne Old Town A medieval district with painted facades, historic towers, and vibrant shops.
Visitor Tips
- Best time to visit Weekday mornings or late afternoons for a quieter atmosphere.
- Duration Allocate 1–2 hours; art lovers may enjoy a longer visit with audio guides.
- Photography Non-flash photography is allowed; check signage or ask staff for updates.
- Language Exhibition texts are mainly in German; English audio guides and printed materials are available.
FAQs
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: April–October: 10:00–18:00; November–March: 11:00–17:00; closed on Lucerne’s Carnival days.
Q: Are tickets required?
A: Yes, with prices depending on age and group size. Children under 7 enter free.
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, including elevators and ramps.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages by prior arrangement.
Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is generally permitted.
Q: What are nearby attractions?
A: Chapel Bridge, Jesuit Church, and Lucerne Old Town are all close by.
