Schnütgen Museum

The Museum Schnütgen houses a valuable collection of medieval artworks in one of Cologne's oldest churches. Many of them are worth the trip alone, such as the important Parler bust, the expressive crucifix of St. George, or the unique Heribert comb, a filigree ivory carving.
The collection ranges from wood and stone sculptures to precious goldsmithing and stained glass to rare ivories and textiles.

A special feature of the museum is its largest exhibition room, which is itself over 1,000 years old: the atmospheric Romanesque St. Cecilia's Church, with its particularly harmonious proportions, lends the works of art exhibited there an extraordinary aesthetic presence. The close proximity to the objects also invites visitors to experience the spiritual aura and beauty of the works of art at first hand.

The museum's collection dates back to its founder and namesake, Alexander Schnütgen (1843–1918), who assembled most of the current holdings in the last third of the 19th century.

Special exhibitions focus on topics that draw on aspects of medieval art as well as culturally relevant themes in today's society. Examples include the special exhibitions “Harald Naegeli in Cologne – Sprayer and Draughtsman” (2022) and “Light in Dark Times. Medieval Stained Glass from the Khanenko Museum in Kyiv” (2025/26).

Outstanding works of art from all areas of the collection are regularly placed in new contexts. It is therefore worth coming back, because there is always something new to discover in the collection.

The Friends of the Museum Schnütgen e.V. supports the museum in its activities. These include new acquisitions, restorations, exhibitions, and research projects, as well as special events, educational programs, and public relations efforts. 

The association brings together people who are interested in and committed to the values embodied by the museum and its collections. Under the name Pro Arte Medii Aevi (For the Art of the Middle Ages), the Friends’ Association was founded in 1956 shortly after the museum’s reopening in the Romanesque Basilica of St. Cecilia. The Friends’ Association is deeply committed to supporting the diverse interests of the Museum Schnütgen. Members enjoy free admission to the permanent collection and special exhibitions at the Museum Schnütgen, as well as free admission to the Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt.

You are invited to special guided tours, lectures, and events at the museum, as well as exclusive excursions led by expert guides.

More on memberships