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Christian Schad Museum: A Modern Art Haven

Explore the world's only comprehensive collection of Christian Schad's art in Aschaffenburg, showcasing his journey from Dada to New Objectivity within a beautifully restored historical setting.

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The Christian Schad Museum in Aschaffenburg is a unique institution dedicated to the life and work of Christian Schad, a pivotal figure in 20th-century art. As the only museum worldwide showcasing all creative periods of this master of New Objectivity, it offers an unparalleled journey through his artistic evolution, from Dada and Expressionism to Magic Realism. Housed within a beautifully restored section of the former Jesuit College, the museum not only displays Schad's iconic paintings and 'Schadographs' (camera-less photographs) but also provides a broader perspective on the art movements that defined his era. A visit promises an immersive experience into the world of modern art, set against the backdrop of Aschaffenburg's rich cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination for art enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Christian Schad Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Tuesday evening for extended hours and a quieter museum experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kunsthalle Jesuitenkirche for a broader perspective on modern and contemporary art.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events that may coincide with your visit.
  • Take advantage of the reduced admission fee offered to visitors presenting a valid train ticket for the day.
  • Explore the charming Innenstadt of Aschaffenburg, with its blend of historical landmarks and contemporary shops and restaurants, after your museum visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Aschaffenburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), the Christian Schad Museum is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head northeast towards the city center, following signs for the Innenstadt. Pass the Stadthalle (city hall) and continue along Goldbacher Straße. Turn right onto Pfaffengasse. The museum will be on your left, marked by a distinctive archway entrance. The walk is straightforward and passes through the pedestrian zone.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, several lines (1, 4, 6, 10) stop at Freihofsplatz or Stadthalle, both a short walk (5-10 minutes) from the museum. From Freihofsplatz, walk south towards the Stiftskirche (collegiate church) and then turn left onto Pfaffengasse. From Stadthalle, follow Goldbacher Straße and turn right onto Pfaffengasse. A single bus fare within Aschaffenburg is approximately €2-3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Aschaffenburg Hauptbahnhof to the Christian Schad Museum takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare is typically between €7-€12. Simply provide the driver with the address: Pfaffengasse 26, 63739 Aschaffenburg.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in the Stadthalle parking garage or the Theaterplatz parking garage, both within a 5-10 minute walk of the museum. From either garage, follow signs towards the Innenstadt and Pfaffengasse. Parking fees typically range from €1.50-€2.50 per hour. Limited handicapped parking spaces are available at Schlossplatz, about 50 meters from the museum.

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Discover more about Christian Schad Museum

The Christian Schad Museum, nestled in the heart of Aschaffenburg's historic Innenstadt (inner city), stands as a beacon for modern art enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of 20th-century artistic movements. Dedicated to the life and oeuvre of Christian Schad (1894–1982), a luminary of the New Objectivity movement, the museum offers a comprehensive and globally unique perspective on his diverse creative periods. Housed within the meticulously restored, heritage-listed complex of the former Jesuit College, the museum itself is an architectural marvel, seamlessly blending historical elements with modern design. This fusion creates a captivating atmosphere that enhances the visitor experience, inviting contemplation and appreciation of Schad's innovative works. The museum's location is the first construction phase of Aschaffenburg's future museum quarter in Pfaffengasse. Christian Schad's artistic journey spanned a tumultuous and transformative period in European history, and his work reflects the shifting cultural landscapes of the 20th century. From his early engagement with Dadaism and Expressionism to his pioneering role in the New Objectivity movement and his later experiments with Magic Realism, Schad consistently pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. His portraits, in particular, offer a compelling glimpse into the lives and social dynamics of Vienna and Berlin during the interwar years. One of Schad's most significant contributions to the art world was his invention of the 'Schadograph,' a camera-less photographic technique that involved arranging objects on light-sensitive paper and exposing them to light. These abstract and often surreal images, created in the aftermath of World War I, established Schad as a visionary artist and cemented his place in the history of photography. The museum boasts an impressive collection of Schadographs, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to explore this unique and influential artistic medium. The Christian Schad Museum's collection comprises over 3,200 objects and works, encompassing paintings, drawings, prints, collages, and photographs. This extensive archive, donated by Schad's widow Bettina, ensures that the museum can offer a continuously evolving selection of exhibits, showcasing the breadth and depth of his artistic output. The museum is the only location worldwide that documents all of the master's creative periods. The museum's layout is thoughtfully designed to guide visitors through Schad's life and artistic development. The ground floor provides a biographical overview, tracing his origins and highlighting the significance of Aschaffenburg in his later years. The upper floors delve into the various phases of his career, from his early experiments as a student to his emergence as a leading figure in the modern art world. Beyond its focus on Christian Schad, the museum also serves as a platform for exploring the broader context of 20th-century art history. Through temporary exhibitions and thematic displays, the museum illuminates the connections between Schad's work and the artistic movements of his time, offering visitors a richer and more nuanced understanding of the era. Aschaffenburg itself provides a fitting backdrop for the Christian Schad Museum. The city's rich cultural heritage, characterized by its blend of historical landmarks and contemporary art spaces, creates a vibrant and stimulating environment for artistic exploration. Visitors to the museum can easily combine their visit with other cultural attractions in the city, such as the Johannisburg Castle, the Kunsthalle Jesuitenkirche, and the Pompejanum, making for a memorable and enriching experience. The Christian Schad Museum is not merely a repository of artworks; it is a dynamic and engaging space that fosters dialogue, encourages critical thinking, and celebrates the enduring power of art. Whether you are a seasoned art aficionado or a curious newcomer, a visit to this remarkable museum is sure to leave a lasting impression, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the life and legacy of Christian Schad.

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