GLYPTOTHEK
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The neoclassical Glyptothek, designed by the architect Leo von Klenze, houses over a thousand years of ancient history.
One of Munich's oldest museums, it was built on the initiative of King Ludwig I of Bavaria, and was the first museum in Europe to be opened to the general public. The word Glyptothek comes from the contraction of two Greek words: glyphein for "sculpture" and theke for "warehouse". It couldn't be more aptly named, as it is the only museum in the world to feature exclusively ancient sculptures.
The building. Before entering the museum, it's worth taking a look at the building, which resembles an ancient temple, plunging us for a moment into the heart of ancient Greece. The Glyptothek was built by Leo von Klenze (1784-1864), the king's favorite architect and the man responsible for the entire Königsplatz. The exterior is Greek, but the interior, with its vaulted ceilings, is more reminiscent of the Roman Empire.
The collection. The Glyptothek boasts a magnificent collection of ancient Greek works belonging to Ludwig I of Bavaria, some of which date back to the 6th century BC! To this must be added a superb collection of Roman bronzes and busts of Hellenistic inspiration. Over 1,000 years of Greek and Roman sculpture are on display here. Masterpieces include the Rondanini Medusa, the Drunken Old Woman and the pediments from the temple of Aphaia in Aegina. The centerpiece of the collection is undoubtedly the Barberini Faun (circa 220 B.C., acquired in 1810 by the philhellene Louis I) which, in its lascivious and sensual pose, captivates and confuses visitors.
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