Glyptothek, Munich

The Glyptotheck in Munich is a museum dedicated to Greek and Roman sculptures, and it is situated at Konigsplatz. This museum houses a remarkable collection of sculptures that were acquired by Bavarian King Ludwig I.

Constructed between 1816 and 1830, the Glyptotheck was designed in the neoclassical style, resembling a Greek Temple. The architect behind this impressive building was Leo von Klenze. Originally, the entire structure was adorned with marble, and it features an Ionic portico on the front. The exterior walls of the museum have niches where 18 original Greek and Roman sculptures were displayed. Inside, the walls were once covered with frescoes created by artists Wilhelm von Kaulbach and Clemens von Zimmermann. Unfortunately, these frescoes did not survive the damage caused by the bombings during World War II, and many of the interior marble walls were also destroyed.

Between 1806 and 1830, King Ludwig I assembled one of the finest collections of Greek and Roman sculptures with the help of his agents. Notable pieces in the Glyptotheck's collection include the Munich Kouros and temple figures from Aegina dating back to the archaic period, the portrait of Homer and the Medusa Rondanini from the classical period, and the Barberini Faun, which is considered one of the most famous sculptures from the Hellenistic period. Additionally, the museum houses Roman busts of figures such as Emperor Augustus, Nero, Septimius Severus, and his wife, Julia Domna.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore the exhibits through conducted tours on Thursday evenings, and the museum is open every day of the week except for Mondays.