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International Ceramics Museum Weiden: A World of Clay

Explore 7,000 years of ceramic art at Weiden's International Ceramics Museum, a branch of Munich's Design Museum, featuring rotating exhibits and a unique Chinese porcelain collection.

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The International Ceramics Museum in Weiden, Bavaria, offers a captivating journey through 7,000 years of ceramic art and history. Housed in a beautifully restored baroque monastery, the museum showcases a diverse collection ranging from ancient earthenware to exquisite porcelain. As a branch of the Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum in Munich, it features rotating exhibits from Bavarian state museums, complemented by its own unique collection of Chinese porcelain from the Qing Dynasty. Visitors can explore the evolution of ceramic techniques and styles across cultures and eras, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Currently undergoing modernization, the museum continues to offer a rich and engaging experience, blending tradition with innovation in the heart of Weiden. Don't miss the special exhibitions that highlight both regional themes and contemporary ceramic art, ensuring a dynamic and enriching visit. Note that only parts of the exhibitions are accessible due to the ongoing modernizations.

A brief summary to Internationales Keramik-Museum Weiden

  • Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-5 pm
  • Friday 11 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead to confirm which exhibits are open during the ongoing modernization (until summer 2025).
  • Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
  • Combine your museum visit with a stroll through Weiden's charming Old Town.
  • Take advantage of the guided tours offered for a deeper understanding of the exhibits (check availability and book in advance).
  • Explore the special exhibition "Porzellan verbindet - Sonderausstellung" (April 6 - June 8, 2025) to discover the porcelain tradition of Weiden.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The International Ceramics Museum is located within a short walk of Weiden's city center. From the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) on Oberer Markt, walk south along Unterer Markt, then turn left onto Luitpoldstraße. The museum will be on your right, approximately a 5-minute walk. Look for the distinctive baroque building, the Waldsassener Kasten.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by train at Weiden (Oberpfalz) station, you can reach the museum by bus or by walking. Several bus lines stop near the museum. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information. Alternatively, the museum is approximately a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) from the train station. Exit the station and follow Bahnhofstraße into the city center, then turn onto Luitpoldstraße. Bus fare is around €2-3.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Luitpoldstraße 25, 92637 Weiden in der Oberpfalz. Parking is available in nearby parking garages and lots in the Altstadt (Old Town). Follow signs for "Parkhaus Altstadt" or "Parkplatz Altstadt". Parking fees typically range from €1-2 per hour or €5-10 for the day.

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Discover more about Internationales Keramik-Museum Weiden

The International Ceramics Museum Weiden, established in 1990 as a branch of the Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum in Munich, presents a fascinating panorama of ceramic art spanning seven millennia. Located in the meticulously renovated Waldsassener Kasten, a baroque monastery complex, the museum offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the history, techniques, and cultural significance of ceramics from around the globe. The museum's collection is diverse, featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations to contemporary creations. Highlights include ancient Greek fine ceramics from the Munich vase collection, showcasing the evolution of Greek pottery over seven centuries. These pieces illustrate the wide range of forms and functions developed by Greek potters for both everyday use and ceremonial occasions. The museum also boasts its own collection of Chinese porcelain from the Qing Dynasty, donated by Maria Seltmann, adding another layer of richness to the exhibits. Rotating exhibits from six Bavarian state museums, under the curatorial guidance of the Neue Sammlung, ensure a constantly evolving display of treasures. These contributions, combined with the museum's own holdings, create a unique and comprehensive overview of ceramic art that cannot be found anywhere else in Bavaria. The museum emphasizes ceramics as a versatile material that has continuously transformed over time, encompassing various techniques from simple earthenware to sophisticated porcelain. In addition to its permanent and rotating exhibits, the International Ceramics Museum Weiden actively promotes contemporary ceramic art through studio exhibitions organized in cooperation with the Förderverein "DIE KERAMISCHEN e.V." These exhibitions focus on regional themes and showcase the work of contemporary ceramic artists, bridging the gap between historical traditions and modern innovations. The museum's commitment to education and engagement is further demonstrated through a varied program of events, including public and private guided tours, workshops for adults and children, and special activities for schools. The museum's location in the heart of Weiden enhances its appeal, making it a vibrant cultural center within the city. Visitors can easily combine a visit to the museum with exploration of Weiden's historic Old Town, enjoying the charming atmosphere and discovering other cultural and historical attractions. The museum building itself, the Waldsassener Kasten, is a significant architectural landmark, adding to the overall experience. Currently, the International Ceramics Museum Weiden is undergoing modernization, a process expected to continue until the summer of 2025. During this time, only parts of the exhibitions are accessible to visitors. The museum is taking a phased approach to the renovations, gradually refurbishing the spaces and installing selected exhibits from the partner museums. This approach allows the museum to remain open and offer visitors a glimpse into the ongoing transformation. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum's website or contact them directly to get the latest information on which exhibits are currently open. Despite the ongoing renovations, the International Ceramics Museum Weiden remains a compelling destination for anyone interested in the art and history of ceramics. Its unique combination of historical artifacts, contemporary art, and educational programs makes it a valuable cultural asset for the city of Weiden and the surrounding region. The museum's dedication to preserving and promoting ceramic art ensures that it will continue to inspire and educate visitors for years to come. Visiting the International Ceramics Museum Weiden offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of ceramics, exploring its rich history, diverse techniques, and enduring cultural significance. Whether you are an avid collector, a student of art history, or simply curious about this fascinating art form, the museum provides an enriching and engaging experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and versatility of ceramics. As the museum approaches its 35th anniversary in 2025, it continues to evolve and adapt, ensuring that it remains a relevant and dynamic cultural institution. The ongoing modernization efforts are a testament to the museum's commitment to providing visitors with the best possible experience, showcasing the art of ceramics in new and innovative ways. The International Ceramics Museum Weiden is not just a museum; it is a living testament to the enduring power of art to connect us to the past, inspire us in the present, and shape our vision for the future. Don't miss the special exhibition "Porzellan verbindet - Sonderausstellung", running from April 6 to June 8, 2025, which highlights the porcelain tradition and showcases selected exhibits and current collections from Weiden's traditional companies Seltmann and BHS Tabletop (Bauscher, Schönwald). This exhibition illustrates how porcelain connects people, markets, and design worlds, emphasizing porcelain as a cultural bridge, a symbol of table culture, and a driver of regional and global economies.

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