Ludwig Museum

The most extensive Pop Art collection in Europe. The third largest Picasso collection in the world. One of the finest collections of German Expressionism. One of the most important international collections of photography. In this museum, one highlight follows another.

The collection of 20th and 21st century art is one of the most important in the world and is based on civic engagement, which continues to make a decisive contribution to the development of the collection to this day. The foundation for the museum's establishment in 1976 was laid by a generous donation of 350 works of modern art by Peter and Irene Ludwig to the city of Cologne. Ten years later, the museum building designed by Cologne architects Peter Busmann and Godfrid Haberer opened between the cathedral, the main railway station, and the Rhine. The central location symbolizes the inclusive orientation of the Museum Ludwig, which sees itself anchored in the heart of society.

The art history of the Rhineland is therefore represented with major works, as is international modern and contemporary art. The global orientation of the collection will become even more important in the future, with a focus on works by artists from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, among others. Likewise, additional works of contemporary art are constantly being added, because a collection is never complete.

Interview with Mayen Beckmann, Chairwoman of the Society for Modern Art at the Ludwig Museum

To the interview