Point of interest
Museum Ludwig
in Cologne, Germany
Right beside the cathedral: one of Germany's most important modern-art collections, strong in Pop Art, German Expressionism, photography and a major Picasso holding. Founded in 1976 by the Ludwig couple's donation.
Where it is
The museum sits directly behind the cathedral on Heinrich-Böll-Platz, between the cathedral, the main station and the Rhine.
Address: Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Cologne
What it is
The collection spans Pop Art, Expressionism, Surrealism and the Russian avant-garde, along with one of Europe's largest Picasso holdings. It also houses an outstanding photography collection in the Agfa Foto-Historama. A must for lovers of modern and contemporary art.
History
In 1976 the chocolate manufacturer Peter Ludwig and his wife Irene donated around 350 modern works to the city, prompting Cologne to commit to building a dedicated museum. The building by Busmann and Haberer opened in 1986. It is devoted to the art of the 20th and 21st centuries.