Cities & Culture

Military History Museum Dresden

The Military History Museum of the German Armed Forces has been widely regarded as one of Europe's most important history museums since its reopening in the autumn of 2011. The exhibition focuses on mankind and questions the causes and consequences of war and violence.

Different positions, viewpoints and destinies are reflected in the exhibition comprising more than 10,000 items that have many exciting stories of the past to tell. Historical objects and documents are crucial when it comes to putting together the cultural history of violence. Here, they are showcased in a breathtaking architectural setting. Top American architect Daniel Libeskind added a prominent steel wedge design to the old arsenal building in Dresden's Albertstadt district during extensive renovation work that was ongoing for several years. This latest addition is supposed to symbolise the bombing of Dresden during the Second World War.

Three exhibition halls in the wings of the original building take visitors on a chronological journey through German military history from the Late Middle Ages to the modern day. Educational stops provide new ways of looking at history. For example, the museum features the work of smell expert Sissel Tolaas, who has recreated the odour of decay and mud that would have prevailed during battle in the First World War trenches. Interactive multimedia stations are on hand to provide a more in-depth look at certain topics. Opening times: Thursday to Tuesday 10 am–6 pm, Monday: 10 am–9 pm, closed on Wednesday

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