Pergamonmuseum

The Pergamonmuseum in Berlin’s Mitte district houses monumental reconstructions like the Pergamon Altar and Ishtar Gate, offering insights into ancient civilizations.

Planning your visit

The Pergamonmuseum holds monumental architecture rather than objects: the Ishtar Gate of Babylon in its blue glazed brick, the Market Gate of Miletus, the Mshatta facade from an Umayyad desert palace, and the Pergamon Altar itself, excavated and shipped to Berlin in the 1880s.

That acquisition history is contested, and increasingly discussed rather than passed over — these structures were removed under Ottoman-era permits that would not be granted today, and claims for their return are live.

The critical practical point is that the museum is closed. A phased renovation begun in 2023 has shut the main building entirely, with reopening expected in stages over years and the Pergamon Altar hall not due back until the 2030s.

The Pergamonmuseum Das Panorama, a separate building nearby, shows Yadegar Asisi's 360-degree panorama of ancient Pergamon along with some original sculpture, and is the available substitute.

Check current status before travelling. Bookable options cover the panorama exhibition. Current availability is listed below.