Berlin Museum | Knoblauchhaus
Life in Berlin during the Biedermeier period
What was life like for a Berlin family during the Biedermeier period? The Knoblauchhaus brings this era to life with original, preserved furniture and everyday objects.
In one of Berlin’s most beautiful residential buildings, you’ll be transported back to the Biedermeier era: here, you can follow in the footsteps of the wealthy Knoblauch merchant family. Reconstructed living rooms featuring original furniture offer an insight into everyday life and interior design of the period. For 170 years, the house served as both a home and business premises, as well as an important venue for family celebrations and social gatherings. Prominent guests, such as the famous architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel and educational reformer Wilhelm von Humboldt, attended these events. This makes the house a place where history comes to life.
From a private residence to a Biedermeier museum
In 1761, master silkworm breeder Johann Christian Knoblauch built the three-storey corner house in the late Baroque style. It served not only as a residence but also as the office for the Knoblauch silk ribbon business. From 1821 to 1918, the bel étage already housed a family museum. After that, the entire building once again functioned as a block of flats. Since 1989, the Knoblauchhaus has been exclusively an exhibition venue. Since then, it has offered visitors a vivid insight into the style, culture and history of the Biedermeier period between 1815 and 1848. A narrow spiral staircase leads up to the first floor, which is dedicated to the individual family members. The rooms are authentically and cosily furnished – as if the family had merely stepped out for a moment. In the living room, you can admire everyday objects and furniture belonging to Henriette Knoblauch, the wife of Carl Knoblauch. A piece of ladies’ furniture, which serves as both a writing desk and a dressing table, vividly illustrates the functional, practical side of the Biedermeier style. The house’s library tells the story of the long-standing master of the house, Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Knoblauch, and his contributions to local politics. Carl’s brother, Eduard Knoblauch, was a famous architect and a pupil of Schinkel. The entrance hall, dedicated to him, houses the original bookcase that once belonged to him. The house’s interior is typical of the period: very simple and understated. This is also reflected in a chandelier designed by Schinkel: whilst exuding golden splendour, it is made from inexpensive substitute materials. Do also take note of the green flowers in the window. As commonplace as this is for us today, this custom has its origins here. On the second floor, you’ll walk through the smaller rooms of the Knoblauch family. Through everyday objects, pictures and official documents, you’ll gain a better understanding of social life, architecture and politics in Berlin.
Highlights at the Knoblauch House
- a rare flute clock from 1797 by the renowned court clockmaker Möllinger
- Original Biedermeier-style living room seating arrangement
- Chandelier designed by the architect Friedrich Schinkel
- A ladies’ piece of furniture, the ‘Patent Secretary’
- 19th-century deathbed of the naturalist Alexander von Humboldt (bearing the family seal)
Historic sights nearby
From the Knoblauchhaus, you can see St Nicholas’ Church and its striking twin towers. For 800 years, it has been the centre of the historic St Nicholas quarter. Nowadays, however, the building serves as a museum dedicated to the history of Berlin’s churches, architecture and city. The basement levels, which are open to the public, are considered to be the oldest rooms in the city. Also just a few metres from the Knoblauchhaus – in the immediate vicinity of the famous Museum Island – stands the impressive Ephraim Palace. Spanning three floors, temporary exhibitions provide insights into Berlin’s art and cultural history. The Rococo building itself is well worth a visit: the elegant staircase, with its majestic central landing, is a highlight of the interior design.
Our tips for visiting the museum
The easiest way to reach the museum is by public transport. From the Alexanderplatz S-Bahn and U-Bahn hub, it is about an 800-metre walk. A little closer is the Klosterstraße U-Bahn station, served by the U2 line. Alternatively, you can also use the U5 sightseeing line. A one-hour guided tour of the museum is available on request. With the Berlin Museum Pass, you get free entry to all the Berlin State Museums.
