Have you heard of the Unterlinden Museum? This beautiful museum in Colmar is well worth a visit. I’ll give you all the information you need before you visit.
Unterlinden Museum: works from medieval to modern art
The Unterlinden Museum is a nugget of art and history that transports you back through the centuries. Housed in a former 13th-century convent, it sets the tone for the experience.
You’ll find an eclectic collection of works of art ranging from medieval to modern. For all art lovers, the visit is interesting and comprehensive.
The museum’s most famous work is the Issenheim Altarpiece, a breathtaking 15th-century work that left me speechless.
Highlights of a visit to the Unterlinden Museum
- The variety of works on display covers a wide historical period.
- The Issenheim Altarpiece is a true gem of Gothic art.
- The former convent, with its cloister and garden, is an enchanting setting.
- Its proximity to downtown Colmar means you can combine the visit with other activities.
Disadvantages of visiting the Unterlinden Museum
- Inadequate signage inside the museum.
- Lack of interactivity for children.
What can you see at the Unterlinden Museum?
At the Unterlinden Museum, you’ll have the pleasure of discovering many fascinating works of art.
As I said earlier, the Issenheim Altarpiece is the centerpiece of the collection.
You can also admire a multitude of paintings, sculptures and objets d’art from different periods.
Artists include Martin Schongauer, Hans Holbein, Lucas Cranach… In the museum’s contemporary extension, more recent artists such as Monet, Picasso and Dubuffet can be discovered…
From time to time, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions. In addition, the museum regularly organizes lectures and workshops, which can be an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge or discover new facets of art.
How much does admission to the Unterlinden Museum cost?
The price to visit the Unterlinden Museum is:
- 13€ for an adult
- 11€ for a senior citizen over 65
- 8€ for a young person (aged 12 to 17)
- 35€ for two adults with 2 to 5 children
- Free for a child under 12
- 2€ for an audio tour.
Check out the current price on Viator.
How long does a visit to the Unterlinden Museum last?
The Unterlinden Museum takes 1h30 to visit.
Where is the Unterlinden Museum?
The Unterlinden Museum is in Colmar, in France’s Grand Est region. The precise address is 1 Rue des Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar.
How do I get to the Unterlinden Museum?
By car, you can use a GPS to guide you to the museum address. There are several public parking lots nearby.
If you use public transport, bus line 1 will take you directly to the Unterlinden stop, just a few steps from the museum.
What are the Unterlinden Museum’s opening hours?
The Unterlinden Museum is open daily except Tuesdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Opinions on the Unterlinden Museum: peace and artistic beauty
As soon as I stepped into this building steeped in history, I was drawn in by its undeniable charm.
What struck me first was the beauty and calm of the cloister. The contrast with the city and the silence that reigns here is almost startling. Of course, I imagine you lose some of that quietude when you visit the museum on a busy day.
The central garden is an invitation to contemplate, take your time and breathe. It’s a rare feeling in the hustle and bustle of tourism, and one that deserves to be emphasized.
I then moved on to the collections. And there, I was amazed by the Issenheim Altarpiece, the museum’s centerpiece. It’s a work of art that captivates you. Its beauty, history and complexity make this altarpiece a highlight of the visit. When I bought my tickets online for the Unterlinden Museum, I had seen the Altarpiece, but in person, the impression is stronger.
The other works in the museum are not to be outdone, of course. I really enjoyed the variety of the collections, from the Middle Ages to modern art. Although I’m not a believer, I’m attached to the Christian religion and I’ve read the Bible. I enjoyed admiring scenes from the Holy Book reproduced in paintings.
In terms of organization, the museum is well laid out. The itinerary is clear and logical, and you don’t have to waste time trying to find your way around.
With children, I think the tour might seem a bit long. But, as adults, we loved it.
What else can you do near the Unterlinden Museum?
After exploring the Unterlinden Museum, there’s plenty more to discover in and around Colmar:
- Stroll through Little Venice: Colmar’s most picturesque district.
- Visit the Maison Pfister: a magnificent half-timbered Renaissance house.
- Taste local wines on the Alsace Wine Route.
- Stroll through the Parc du Champ de Mars: a large green space in the heart of the city.
- Visit the Bartholdi Museum: dedicated to the artist who created the Statue of Liberty.
- Explore Colmar’s Christmas market in December.
DenisAs a professional blogger, I take advantage of my flexible schedule to travel a lot. I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list!
