• The Germanisches Nationalmuseum (GNM) in Nuremberg, Germany, is a museum of German culture and art. It was founded in 1852 and is one of the oldest and most important museums of German art and culture in the world. The museum was located close to my accommodation, and it took me less than 5 minutes of walk to reach it.
• The museum entrance fee was 8 Euros which has to be paid at the front desk. No bags were allowed within the premises of this museum and a separate locker section is dedicated for visitors to keep their bags.
• The museum’s collections include works of art and artifacts from the prehistoric period to the present, with a focus on German art, culture, and history. The GNM is known for its extensive collection of medieval art, including sculpture, metalwork, and textiles, as well as its collection of prints and drawings. The museum also has a library and an archive with a large number of manuscripts and documents related to German culture and history.
• As soon as I walked through the doors, I was struck by the grandeur of the building. The museum’s architecture was impressive, with high ceilings and grand halls that gave the impression of a grand palace.
• The museum has displayed the history of Germany and German-speaking regions over the centuries, through culture, musical instruments, folk art, fashion and clothing ornamental arts, scientific instruments, toys, and so on.
• The halls were designed in such a way that provided an in-depth look at the country’s past. From the prehistoric period to the present day, the exhibit covered all the major events that shaped Germany’s history. I was particularly fascinated by the section on the Middle Ages, which showcased the art and culture of that time period. The detailed exhibits and interactive displays made it easy to understand the historical context and appreciate the significance of the artifacts on display.
• I visited the art gallery section of the museum, which featured an impressive collection of works by German artists. From the Renaissance to the modern era, the gallery showcased the diverse styles and techniques used by German artists throughout history. I was especially impressed by the variety of mediums used, from oil paintings to sculptures, and the skill and creativity of the artists on display.
• An exhibition section was dedicated for exhibiting the medical innovations from the Middle Ages including the details of the inventors. This provided an interesting look at the technological advancements made by ancient Germans. The exhibit featured a wide range of inventions and innovations, from early mechanical devices.
The following are the artwork which I liked from this museum:
"Stove tile with lady on horseback": A decorative tile that was produced in Germany. Many German tile manufacturers produced decorative tiles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which often featured a variety of designs, including those with images of ladies on horseback. These tiles were used to decorate fireplaces, stoves, and other architectural features in homes and buildings. They are now highly collectible and can be found in antique shops and at auction.
Shield (targe) with arms of the teutonic order: The Teutonic Order is a medieval Christian order that was founded during the 12th century in Acre, Palestine. The order was originally established to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land, but over time it grew in power and influence, eventually becoming a military order that fought in the Crusades and in various European wars. The arms of the Teutonic Order typically feature a black cross on a white field, which is often displayed on a shield. The shield may also feature other symbols or heraldic devices associated with the order.
The Imperial Reliquary Shrine of the Holy Blood: This is a medieval reliquary that was created in the early 14th century. It was commissioned by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV to house a relic of the Holy Blood, which was believed to be a vial of Christ’s blood. The reliquary is made of gilded silver and is decorated with intricate engravings and enamel work. It is shaped like a Gothic church and features statues of saints, scenes from the life of Christ, and other religious imagery. It is considered one of the most important surviving examples of Gothic metalwork and it is still preserved in St. Sebaldus Church in Nuremberg.
Poulaines, also known as “cracows,” are a type of medieval shoe that have a long, pointed toe. They were popular in the 14th and 15th centuries and were worn by both men and women. The elongated toe was a symbol of wealth and status and was often highly decorated. Poulaines were worn with hose (tights) and were often paired with a type of shoe called a chopine, which was a platform shoe worn to further accentuate the length of the toe. Poulaines fell out of fashion in the 16th century but have been recreated by modern shoe designers for historical reenactments and costumes.
“The Beheading of St John the Baptist”: A painting by the Italian Baroque master Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. The painting depicts the moment when John the Baptist is being beheaded as ordered by King Herod. The painting is considered one of Caravaggio’s greatest works and is one of his most famous depictions of violence and martyrdom. It is considered a masterpiece of chiaroscuro, the technique of using contrasts of light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth.
Overall, my visit to the German National Museum was a wonderful experience. The museum provided a comprehensive look at Germany’s history, art, and technology, and the exhibits were both informative and engaging. I would highly recommend a visit to anyone interested in learning more about Germany and its culture.
