How exciting modern architecture can be!
The Jewish Museum is quite possibly one of the most exciting examples of contemporary architecture in Berlin. Opened on 9 September 2001, the form and style of the museum reflect a complex concept consisting of ciphers, codes and philosophical themes.
The zigzag-like Jewish Museum is based on a design by American architect Daniel Libeskind and, on account of its rugged, almost windowless outside, it resembles a shattered Star of David. In addition to the exhibition rooms, the interior contains the windowless Holocaust Tower. Outside can be found the Garden of Exile, where pillars have been set up on a sloping level, thus reflecting the isolation and disorientation of life in exile. The main axis, known as the "void," cuts a swathe through the various departments of the museum, thus highlighting the emptiness of, or perhaps better expressed, that which is no longer visible in Jewish history.
Since January 1999, the Jewish Museum has been open to the public and, although it was initially still "empty," nevertheless it was met with great interest on behalf of the public. In September 2001, the permanent exhibition was opened, which focuses on the history of German Jews.
Infos for school classes
The museum offers school pupils of all ages various conducted tours, project days and workshops. Up to 20 persons can be included in a conducted tour; groups of larger sizes will be divided up. Work material is available for teachers to help them prepare for the tours. The reduced admittance charge for pupils is 2.50 Euros. Prior registration of four to six weeks before the planned date is recommended.
