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Museum August Kestner: A Cultural Tapestry

Explore 6,000 years of art and culture at Hannover's oldest museum, featuring Egyptian treasures, classical antiquities, and European design masterpieces in a captivating blend of history and art.

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The Museum August Kestner, Hannover's oldest museum, established in 1889, showcases a diverse collection spanning 6,000 years of applied art. From ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies and intricate jewelry, to classical Greco-Roman sculptures and a vast numismatic collection, the museum offers a journey through human creativity across cultures and eras. Housed in a building that blends neo-Renaissance elements with modern architecture, the museum provides a unique setting for exploring world history and artistic techniques. Don't miss the medieval crafts, Renaissance treasures, and modern design pieces, all contributing to a rich cultural experience in the heart of Hannover. Free admission is offered every Friday.

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Local tips

  • Visit on Friday for free admission and explore the museum's extensive collections without any cost.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the museum's highlights and learn about the history and significance of the artifacts.
  • Check the museum's website for special exhibitions and events to enhance your visit with unique and timely displays.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hannover Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take U-Bahn lines 1 or 2 towards 'Sarstedt' or 'Wettbergen'. Alight at 'Ernst-August-Platz' (approximately 2 stops). Exit the station and walk towards Trammplatz. The museum will be on your right. A single ride ticket costs approximately €3.40. Alternatively, the HannoverCard tourist offers free travel on public transport and discounts on attractions; a one-day card costs €13 for a single person.

  • Walking

    From the city center (e.g., near the Marktkirche), walk south towards the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall). The museum is located next to the New Town Hall on Trammplatz, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Look for the building with a blend of neo-Renaissance and modern architectural elements.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Hannover Hauptbahnhof to the Museum August Kestner costs approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes about 5-10 minutes. Specify 'Museum August Kestner, Trammplatz 3' as your destination.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Trammplatz 3, 30159 Hannover. Limited parking is available in the vicinity. The 'Parkhaus am Landtag' parking garage is nearby. Parking fees typically range from €2.30 per hour, with a daily maximum of €15. Be aware that parking in downtown Hannover can be limited, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Museum August Kestner

The Museum August Kestner, a cornerstone of Hannover's cultural landscape since its founding in 1889, invites visitors on an enthralling journey through the history of applied arts. Named after August Kestner, a passionate art collector and diplomat who spent 36 years in Rome, the museum's origins lie in Kestner's extensive private collection of Egyptian, Greco-Roman, and other artistic treasures. After Kestner's death, his nephew Hermann Kestner ensured that the collection was gifted to the city of Hannover, forming the foundation of what would become the Museum August Kestner. The museum's collection was further enriched by the addition of medieval handicrafts and antique objects from Senator Friedrich Culemann, solidifying its status as a repository of human creativity across millennia. The museum building itself is a testament to the passage of time. Originally constructed in the Neo-Renaissance style, it suffered significant damage during World War II. However, the resilient structure was later integrated into a modern building featuring a striking glass-concrete facade. Today, visitors can still admire remnants of the original 1889 museum, including parts of the staircase, side wings, and the meticulously preserved entrance facade. The Museum August Kestner's collection is thoughtfully organized into four distinct categories, each offering a unique perspective on the evolution of applied arts: *Ancient Egyptian Art:* This collection provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian culture, spanning from the 4th millennium BC to the Roman-Christian era. Highlights include a remarkable array of reliefs, particularly from the Amarna period, as well as sculptures, stelae, vases, amulets, papyri, and funerary objects that illuminate daily life, religious beliefs, and burial practices. *Classical Antiquities:* Showcasing the artistic achievements of the Greco-Roman Mediterranean region and the Near East, this collection features bronze and terracotta statuettes, everyday objects such as glassware and clay lamps, and bronze tools that offer insights into life in the Mediterranean world from 1500 BC to 500 AD. The gem collection, one of the largest in Germany, is a particular highlight. *European Applied Arts and Design:* This collection showcases the evolution of European craftsmanship from the medieval period to the present day. Visitors can admire ceramics, porcelain, textiles, furniture, and other art objects that reflect changing tastes and technological advancements. The collection also includes paintings, graphics, and sculptures, providing a comprehensive overview of European artistic expression. *Numismatics:* With approximately 100,000 coins and medals, the museum's numismatic collection is one of the largest in Northern Germany. Spanning 2,600 years of monetary history, the collection includes ancient Greek coins, Roman Republican and Imperial coins, Byzantine lead seals and coins, and medieval bracts and coins from the Lower Saxony region. Special collections include ancient Greek coins from Olympia and German coins from the 19th century. Beyond its permanent collections, the Museum August Kestner hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year, exploring diverse themes and showcasing both historical and contemporary works. These exhibitions provide fresh perspectives on the museum's holdings and attract new audiences. The Museum August Kestner is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a dynamic cultural center that fosters learning and engagement. The museum offers guided tours, lectures, and workshops designed to enhance visitors' understanding and appreciation of the works on display. These programs provide opportunities for visitors to delve deeper into specific topics, ask questions, and connect with experts in the field. The museum's commitment to accessibility extends to its physical facilities. The entrance is accessible via a ramp, and a lift provides access to all floors. This ensures that visitors of all abilities can fully enjoy the museum's offerings. Located in the heart of Hannover, next to the New Town Hall, the Museum August Kestner is easily accessible by public transportation. Its central location makes it a convenient destination for both tourists and local residents. The Museum August Kestner stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and culture to connect us to the past, inform the present, and inspire the future. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to this remarkable museum is sure to be a rewarding and enriching experience.

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