Diocesan museum

Perched atop the historic Domberg hill in Freising, Bavaria, the Diocesan museum (locally known as Diözesanmuseum) is an extraordinary treasure trove of religious art and cultural heritage. As the museum of the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising, it boasts the second-largest collection of art in the Catholic Church worldwide, only surpassed by the Vatican Museums. This makes it a must-visit for anyone eager to delve into the rich tapestry of religious art spanning from the early 5th century to contemporary modern art.

The History of the Diocesan Museum

The foundation of the Diocesan museum's collection dates back to the mid-19th century, thanks to the generous donations of theologian and art historian Joachim Sighart in 1857 and Heinrich Gotthard in 1864. These initial collections laid the groundwork for the museum's extensive array of exhibits, which continued to expand over the decades.

In 1974, Julius Cardinal Döpfner, the Archbishop of Munich and Freising, initiated the establishment of a public museum under the archdiocese's patronage. The museum was set up in the building of the former Knabenseminar (boys' seminary) by Sigmund Benker, with subsequent enhancements by his successor, Peter B. Steiner. A significant overhaul between 2013 and 2022, led by Christoph Kürzeder, saw the museum undergo a comprehensive reimagining, including the addition of a notable collection of Byzantine art from Christian Schmidt. The museum reopened its doors on October 1, 2022, after nine years of renovation.

Exploring the Collection

The Diocesan museum's collection is vast, with over 40,000 works of art displayed across 2,500 square meters of exhibition space. Visitors can marvel at masterpieces by historically significant artists such as Erasmus Grasser, Jan Polack, Hans Leinberger, Lucas Cranach, Cosmas Damian Asam, Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo, Johann Baptist Straub, Christopher Paudiß, and Ignaz Günther. The museum also features works by modern artists like Alexej von Jawlensky, Rupprecht Geiger, James Turrell, Berlinde De Bruyckere, and Neo Rauch, among others.

The exhibits include an impressive array of paintings, icons, sculptures, coins, medals, and religious artifacts. A highlight is the extensive nativity scene collection, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the devotional practices of different eras. Among the icons, the Freisinger Lukasbild stands out, a piece brought to Venice by Byzantine Emperor Manuel II Palaiologos and known as the Hope of the Hopeless.

The Museum Building

The Diocesan museum is housed in the former Knabenseminar building, constructed in 1870 by Matthias Berger on the site of the old collegiate church of St. Andreas. This neoclassical structure bears a striking resemblance to the works of Leo von Klenze and Friedrich von Gärtner along Munich's Ludwigstraße. The building was expanded in 1876/77 with an octagonal annex that once housed the toilets.

After the priestly training moved to Munich in 1968, the boys' seminary no longer served its original purpose and was closed. The building stood vacant until 1974, when it was repurposed as a museum, providing a fitting home for the core collections and numerous ecclesiastical artworks displaced by the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council.

Renovation and Reopening

In July 2013, the Diocesan museum was unexpectedly closed for extensive renovations, primarily for fire safety upgrades. However, a report by the Süddeutsche Zeitung revealed that the museum had never received formal approval for operation since its opening in 1974, necessitating a comprehensive overhaul. During the closure, the museum focused on researching its collection and strengthening collaborations with other institutions. The redesign included reducing the permanent exhibition space to accommodate more special exhibitions.

The architectural firm Brückner & Brückner won the competition for the renovation project in February 2014. Despite some local opposition, the controversial octagonal annex was eventually demolished, with approval from the Bavarian State Office for Monument Protection and the city's building committee. The museum reopened on October 1, 2022, retaining the original architectural style of Matthias Berger while offering a fresh, modernized experience for visitors. The new design includes James Turrell's Ganzfeld light installation, A CHAPEL FOR LUKE and his scribe Lucius the Cyrene, in the house chapel, directly aligned with the Freisinger Lukasbild.

Special Exhibitions and Events

The Diocesan museum hosts a variety of special exhibitions and events throughout the year. Notable recent exhibitions include Dance on the Volcano: Life and Faith in the Shadow of Vesuvius and Kiki Smith: Empathy. The museum also offers workshops and guided tours for children and visitors, providing engaging educational experiences led by expert art educators and curators.

In 2024, the Diocesan museum will host the Bavarian State Exhibition Tassilo, Korbinian, and the Bear – Bavaria in the Early Middle Ages from May 7 to November 3. To enhance accessibility, the Dombergbahn, a funicular railway, has been constructed, ending just south of the museum.

The Diocesan museum in Freising is not just a repository of religious art; it is a vibrant cultural hub that bridges the past and present, offering a profound insight into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Bavaria. Whether you're a history enthusiast, art lover, or curious traveler, the Diocesan museum promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.