Museumsquartier St. Annen: A Journey Through Lübeck's History and Art

Explore Lübeck's art, history, and culture at the Museumsquartier St. Annen, home to medieval masterpieces and contemporary art in a historic monastery setting.

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Museumsquartier St. Annen

The Museumsquartier St. Annen, nestled in Lübeck's historic Old Town, is a captivating cultural hub housed in a former Augustinian nunnery dating back to 1515. This museum complex offers a unique blend of art, history, and architecture, showcasing Lübeck's rich heritage from the Middle Ages to the present day. Visitors can explore the St. Annen Museum, home to Germany's largest collection of medieval sculpture and altarpieces, including masterpieces by Hans Memling and Bernt Notke. The Kunsthalle St. Annen, a modern art hall built on the ruins of a former monastery church, features contemporary works and special exhibitions. With its serene courtyards, gardens, and walkways, the Museumsquartier St. Annen provides an immersive experience for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking to delve deeper into Lübeck's cultural treasures. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the harmonious blend of sacred space and sacred art, a prominent feature that distinguishes this museum within Germany.

A brief summary to Museumsquartier St. Annen

St.-Annen-Straße 15, Lübeck, Lübecker Altstadt, 23552, DE
+494511224137
Visit website

Local tips

Visit during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed museum experience.
Take advantage of the audio guide to learn more about the museum's collection and the history of the St. Anne's Priory.
Explore the museum's courtyards and gardens for a peaceful respite from the galleries.
Check the museum's website for special exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours.
Combine your visit with a stroll through Lübeck's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Getting There

Walking

The Museumsquartier St. Annen is located in the heart of Lübeck's Old Town and is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Markt (market square), walk southeast along Breite Straße, then turn right onto St.-Annen-Straße. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. From the Holstentor, walk east along Holstenstraße, continue onto Puppenbrücke, cross the bridge and turn left onto St.-Annen-Straße. The museum will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.
Public Transport

If arriving by train at Lübeck Hauptbahnhof (main station), take bus lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 30, 31, 32 or 39 from the ZOB Lübeck/Hauptbahnhof bus station to the Wahmstraße stop. From there, walk east along Wahmstraße, then turn right onto St.-Annen-Straße. The museum will be on your right. The bus ride is approximately 5 minutes, and the walk is approximately 2 minutes. A single bus fare is approximately €2-3. Alternatively, from the Lübeck Hauptbahnhof, it is approximately a 17 minute walk to the Museumsquartier St. Annen.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Lübeck. A taxi ride from Lübeck Hauptbahnhof to the Museumsquartier St. Annen will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost approximately €11-15.
Driving

If driving, be aware that parking in Lübeck's Old Town can be limited and expensive. Several parking garages are located within walking distance of the Museumsquartier St. Annen, including the Haerder Center parking garage and the Parkhaus Am Klingenberg. Parking fees typically range from €2-3 per hour, with daily rates around €6. Consider using the KWL day ticket for €6 for 24 hours of parking at selected car parks.

Discover more about Museumsquartier St. Annen

The Museumsquartier St. Annen, located in the heart of Lübeck's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, is a cultural gem that seamlessly blends art, history, and architecture. Housed in the former St. Anne's Priory, an Augustinian nunnery established in 1515, the museum complex offers visitors a captivating journey through Lübeck's rich heritage from the Middle Ages to the present day. Originally founded as a convent for unmarried daughters of Lübeck's wealthy citizens, St. Anne's Priory played a significant role in the city's religious and social history. However, the Reformation brought about changes, and the building was later used as a poorhouse, orphanage, and even a prison. In 1915, the monastery was transformed into a museum, becoming a repository for the city's artistic and historical treasures. The Museumsquartier St. Annen comprises two main components: the St. Annen Museum and the Kunsthalle St. Annen. The St. Annen Museum showcases an impressive collection of medieval art, including Germany's largest collection of medieval sculpture and altarpieces. Masterpieces by renowned artists such as Hans Memling, Bernt Notke, Hermen Rode, and Jacob van Utrecht adorn the museum's galleries, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life of the Hanseatic city during the Middle Ages. One of the highlights of the St. Annen Museum is the Passion Altarpiece by Hans Memling, commissioned in 1491 by the Lübeck merchant family Greverade for their chapel in the cathedral. This exquisite altarpiece is considered one of the city's most valuable treasures and a prime example of Netherlandish art from the 15th century. The museum also features a remarkable collection of wooden and limestone sculptures, as well as sacred vestments from the 14th and 15th centuries. In addition to its medieval art collection, the St. Annen Museum offers insights into Lübeck's cultural history, showcasing objects and reconstructions of environments that depict the everyday life of the city's inhabitants. Visitors can explore meticulously recreated rooms from historic Lübeck homes, complete with period furniture, portraits, and decorative arts, providing a glimpse into the elegance and sophistication of Lübeck's past. The Kunsthalle St. Annen, a modern art hall built on the ruins of the former monastery church, provides a striking contrast to the St. Annen Museum's medieval setting. Designed by architects Konermann Siegmund, the Kunsthalle's architecture received the quadrennial star prize of the Bund Deutscher Architekten (Federation of German Architects) of Schleswig-Holstein in 2003. The Kunsthalle features contemporary works and special exhibitions, showcasing the ever-changing relationship between art and society. The Museumsquartier St. Annen extends over an area of almost 9,000 square meters, with approximately 4,000 square meters of exhibition space and more than 2,000 square meters of Lübeck's famous courtyards, gardens, and walkways. These serene outdoor spaces offer visitors a tranquil respite from the museum's galleries, providing an opportunity to reflect on the art and history they have encountered. The Museumsquartier St. Annen is not only a repository of art and history but also a vibrant cultural center that hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year. Special exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours cater to diverse interests and age groups, ensuring that there is always something new to discover at the museum. Visiting the Museumsquartier St. Annen is an immersive experience that allows visitors to connect with Lübeck's past while experiencing the contemporary cultural offerings of the region. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the city's heritage, the Museumsquartier St. Annen promises an unforgettable journey through time. The museum's commitment to education and accessibility is evident in its multimedia offerings, including an audio guide that takes visitors on a tour of the exhibition on the upper floor and through the medieval collection. The museum also features a children's art gallery, ensuring that young visitors have the opportunity to experience art in a sensory and engaging way. The Museumsquartier St. Annen is more than just a museum; it is a living testament to Lübeck's rich cultural heritage. Its unique blend of art, history, and architecture, combined with its commitment to education and accessibility, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the Hanseatic city's past and present.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Palais Rantzau - ein Haus der Deutschen Stiftung Denkmalschutz

0.2 km

Discover the historical elegance of Palais Rantzau in Lübeck, a captivating blend of neogothic architecture and medieval history, now home to the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival.

Palais Rantzau - ein Haus der Deutschen Stiftung Denkmalschutz

Reliefkarte von Lübeck

0.5 km

Discover Lübeck's historic heart: Markt, where centuries of history meet vibrant modern life in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.

Lübecker Altstadt

0.5 km

Explore Lübeck's UNESCO-listed Altstadt: a captivating blend of medieval architecture, Hanseatic history, and cultural treasures, offering an unforgettable journey through time.

The Broken Bells Of St. Mary's

0.6 km

Witness history etched in shattered bells at Lübeck's St. Mary's Church, a powerful memorial to peace within a Brick Gothic masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lübeck Altstadt

0.7 km

Explore Lübeck's Altstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy in a captivating blend of history, architecture, and Hanseatic heritage.

Lübecker Löwen

0.8 km

Discover the majestic Lübecker Löwen, symbols of Lübeck's Hanseatic heritage, guarding the historic Burgtor and Holstentor in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage city.

Klughafenbrücke

0.9 km

Discover the shimmering Klughafenbrücke in Lübeck, connecting history and modernity with scenic views of the Kanaltrave and easy access to UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Stadtgraben

0.9 km

Discover Lübeck's Stadtgraben: A historic moat turned tranquil park, offering scenic views and a glimpse into the city's medieval past along the Altstadt.

Puppenbrücke

0.9 km

Cross Lübeck's historic Puppenbrücke, adorned with captivating statues, and step into a world where art, history, and Hanseatic charm converge in a picturesque setting.

Koberg

1.0 km

Discover Koberg in Lübeck: A captivating square where medieval architecture meets Hanseatic history, offering a unique glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.

Bismarckdenkmal

1.1 km

Discover the Bismarckdenkmal in Lübeck, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of Otto von Bismarck amidst serene gardens, offering a glimpse into Germany's past.

Burgtor in Lübeck

1.3 km

Discover the Burgtor in Lübeck: a historic northern gate, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and a gateway to the city's Hanseatic past and vibrant present.

Schwerlastkran

1.5 km

Discover the iconic Schwerlastkran in Lübeck, a historic crane symbolizing the city’s maritime heritage and engineering marvels.

Froschkönigteich

1.8 km

Discover the enchanting Froschkönigteich in Lübeck's Stadtpark, a serene oasis with a fairytale charm, perfect for relaxation and a touch of magic in the heart of St. Gertrud.

Jerusalemsberg

2.0 km

Discover Jerusalemsberg in Lübeck: A historical landmark offering serene green spaces, a Gothic shrine, and panoramic city views, perfect for history enthusiasts and peaceful retreats.

Explore the sweet heritage of marzipan at the Marzipanmuseum Niederegger in Lübeck, a delightful blend of art, history, and delicious treats.

Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Buddha Bowl in Lübeck's historic Altstadt - where culinary artistry meets tradition.

Experience vibrant shopping and dining at Haerder-Center, Lübeck's top shopping mall, perfect for travelers seeking local culture and retail therapy.

Tally Weijl

0.3 km

Explore the latest fashion trends at Tally Weijl in Lübeck's charming historic district, perfect for all your stylish needs.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Soul and Kitchen

0.1 km

Experience the vibrant flavors and cozy ambiance of Soul and Kitchen in Lübeck's historic Altstadt, an unmissable culinary gem.

Allegro Bar Svetlana Töbe

0.2 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife and welcoming atmosphere at Allegro Bar in Lübeck, where every night is a celebration of good drinks and great company.

Bar 112 - Lübeck

0.3 km

Discover the lively spirit of Lübeck at Bar 112, where great drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the historic Altstadt.

Cocoloco Bar - Lübeck

0.4 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Lübeck at Cocoloco Bar, where unforgettable evenings come alive with drinks, music, and a lively crowd.

Rauchfang - Lübeck

0.4 km

Experience the warmth of Lübeck at Rauchfang, a cozy pub offering local brews and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Sternschnuppe Lübeck

0.4 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Lübeck at Sternschnuppe, a cozy bar offering a diverse drink selection in the heart of the historic city.

Kandinsky - Lübeck

0.4 km

Discover Kandinsky, a unique bar and restaurant in Lübeck's Altstadt, offering a vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary delights.

Gang No. 56 - Lübeck

0.5 km

Discover Gang No. 56 in Lübeck: A lively bar offering a fantastic selection of drinks in a charming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding in the heart of the city.

sZiggy's Bar

0.5 km

Discover the inviting atmosphere and delightful drinks at sZiggy's Bar, a must-visit spot in Lübeck's historic district for every traveler.

Funambules - Lübeck

0.5 km

Discover the lively spirit of Lübeck at Funambules, where live music, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere come together.

Lulu's Pub

0.6 km

Experience the heart of Lübeck at Lulu's Pub, where local brews and a cozy atmosphere bring friends together.

Torrio's - American Bar

0.7 km

Experience the vibrant American bar culture in Lübeck at Torrio's, where good drinks and lively atmosphere await.

Dietrich's Bar - Luebeck

0.7 km

Experience the charm of Lübeck at Dietrich's Bar, where cozy atmosphere meets a delightful drink selection.

Caffe Grande Barcio

0.7 km

Discover Caffe Grande Barcio in Lübeck - a perfect blend of grill delights and café comforts in a charming atmosphere.

MENGwirtschaft

0.7 km

Discover MENGwirtschaft, a cozy bar in Lübeck's Altstadt, where local culture meets delightful drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

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Museumsquartier St. Annen: A Journey Through Lübeck's History and Art

A brief summary to Museumsquartier St. Annen

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Museumsquartier St. Annen

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Museumsquartier St. Annen

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Palais Rantzau - ein Haus der Deutschen Stiftung Denkmalschutz

Reliefkarte von Lübeck

Lübecker Altstadt

The Broken Bells Of St. Mary's

Lübeck Altstadt

Lübecker Löwen

Klughafenbrücke

Stadtgraben

Puppenbrücke

Koberg

Bismarckdenkmal

Burgtor in Lübeck

Schwerlastkran

Froschkönigteich

Jerusalemsberg

Unmissable attractions to see

Kunsthalle St. Annen

Ehemaliges Spinnhaus

Halbturm

St.-Aegidien-Kirche Lübeck - Ev.-Luth. Kirchengemeinde St. Aegidien zu Lübeck

Predigerhaus von St. Aegidien

Höveln Gang

Dom zu Lübeck - Ev.-Luth. Dom-Kirchengemeinde in Lübeck

Lübeck Cathedral

Zeughaus

Wasserspiele Klingenberg

Museum of Nature and Environment

Pulvermacherhaus

Stitens Almshouse

Wasserspiele Breite Straße

Marzipanmuseum Niederegger

Essential places to dine

Leo's Juice & Burger

Paulaner am Dom

Bei Ulla

Hacienda Rodizio

Ristorante Italiano Florentina

Restaurant Alte Schmiede

Masala Darbar

La Vigna

Miera - Restaurant & Feinkost

Restaurant VAI - Lübeck

Larry's Bar & Restaurant

Tipasa Restaurant Lübeck

Restaurant Schlumachers

SALIS

Buddha Bowl - Lübeck

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Julestjerne lubeck

Oxfam Shop Lübeck

Arleol First Class second Hand

ONE-Fair Trade coffee roaster

Trekking König Outlet

Gandalph Lübeck

Michaelsen Scandinavian Living

AUST Fashion Lübeck

Geoffrey - Mode - Birgit Gotthard-Busch e.K.

Elfenreich

Vintage Vogue - Retro Boutique

Neue Liebe

KULT

Haerder-Center

Tally Weijl

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Soul and Kitchen

Allegro Bar Svetlana Töbe