Jewish Museum Berlin

Jüdisches Museum Berlin

This architecturally striking museum with a zinc-clad building and void spaces tells the complex story of Jewish history, culture, and contributions to German civilization. It combines powerful exhibitions with thought-provoking architecture designed by Daniel Libeskind.

Things to do

• Explore the Permanent Exhibition — Walk through the main galleries chronicling 2,000 years of Jewish history in Germany, from medieval times through the Holocaust to contemporary life.
• Experience the Void Spaces — Navigate the architect Daniel Libeskind's intentional empty spaces within the building that represent absence and create moments of contemplation.
• Visit the Garden of Exile and Emigration — Walk through this outdoor installation featuring 49 concrete pillars with soil from Berlin and Israel, symbolizing displacement and exile, located at lat 52.5037 lng 13.3895.
• Attend a Temporary Exhibition — Check the rotating exhibitions that explore specific themes in Jewish culture, contemporary art, and historical narratives.
• Watch Documentary Films — View screenings in the museum's cinema that feature perspectives on Jewish life, identity, and history relevant to current exhibitions.
• Participate in a Guided Tour — Join a curator-led tour to gain deeper insights into the architectural symbolism and historical narratives throughout the building.

Food to try

• Bagels and Lox — Jewish-style bagels with smoked salmon and cream cheese are available at cafés near the museum in the Kreuzberg neighborhood.
• Matzo Ball Soup — This traditional Jewish comfort soup made with chicken broth and matzo dumplings can be found at kosher restaurants in nearby Charlottenburg.
• Challah Bread — The braided Jewish Sabbath bread is available fresh at kosher bakeries in the Wilmersdorf district, often on Friday mornings.
• Schnitzel (Jewish-style) — Breaded and fried meat cutlets are a beloved dish in Jewish-German cuisine, served at traditional restaurants throughout Berlin.
• Herring Specialties — Pickled herring and herring salads reflect Ashkenazi Jewish culinary traditions and are served at delis in the Mitte district.

Local customs & good to know

• Observe Respectful Photography Policies — Many areas of the Holocaust exhibitions prohibit photography out of respect for victims; always check signage before taking photos.
• Allow Ample Time for Reflection — The architecture and exhibitions are emotionally demanding; plan for at least 3-4 hours and don't rush through the void spaces and memorial areas.
• Book Tickets in Advance — The museum is popular and frequently reaches capacity, especially on weekends, so purchasing tickets online beforehand is recommended.
• Learn About Berlin's Jewish Community — Visit on a day when community events or lectures are scheduled to engage with Berlin's living Jewish culture beyond the historical narrative.