Best for
History fans interested in whatever the current temporary exhibition covers
Time needed
60–90 minutes
Worth it?
Depends on the current exhibition — check the topic before committing
Skip if
You specifically wanted the full permanent German history exhibition — it's closed
About Deutsches Historisches Museum
The Zeughaus (Arsenal) is the oldest building on Unter den Linden and one of the most important Baroque structures in Berlin, built between 1695 and 1729 as Prussia's central weapons depot under four successive architects, including the sculptor Andreas Schlüter, whose relief masks of dying warriors still decorate the courtyard. It served military purposes for nearly two centuries before being converted into a museum of German history in the 20th century.
In 2003, architect I.M. Pei — best known for the Louvre's glass pyramid — added a striking glass exhibition hall behind the historic building, connected by an underground passage, giving the museum a second identity as a showcase for contemporary architecture alongside its historical mission.
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As of 2026, the Zeughaus itself and its permanent exhibition on German history are closed for a major renovation, with no confirmed reopening date. The Pei Building remains open and continues to host rotating temporary exhibitions on specific historical themes, meaning a visit in 2026 looks quite different from what the museum has traditionally offered — worth checking the current exhibition topic before planning a special trip.
Even with the permanent collection closed, the Zeughaus's Baroque courtyard and facade are visible and worth a look from Unter den Linden, and the museum's free-entry days scattered through the year (13 August, 15 September, 3 October, 9 November and 3 December 2026) make a quick visit to whatever's showing in the Pei Building an easy add-on to a Museum Island day.
What to See: Highlights
- 1The Zeughaus — Berlin's oldest Baroque building, built 1695–1729
- 2Andreas Schlüter's sculpted masks of dying warriors in the courtyard
- 3I.M. Pei's glass exhibition hall extension, added 2003
- 4Rotating temporary exhibitions while the permanent collection is closed
- 5Several free-entry dates scattered through 2026
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Insider Tips
Check what's currently showing in the Pei Building before planning a dedicated visit
The Zeughaus's Baroque courtyard is viewable and worth a quick look even without a ticket
Free entry on several specific 2026 dates — check the calendar
Combine with a walk down Unter den Linden toward Museum Island
Don't expect the full permanent German history exhibition in 2026 — it's closed for renovation
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Getting There
Unter den Linden 2, 10117 Berlin
Open in Google Maps →- 1Bus 100 or 300 to Staatsoper, or a 10-minute walk from S-Bahn Hackescher Markt or Friedrichstraße.
Where to stay
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you visit.
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Should You Visit?
Visit if...
- The current Pei Building exhibition topic interests you
- You appreciate I.M. Pei's architecture
- You're walking Unter den Linden and want a quick, flexible stop
- One of the 2026 free-entry dates lines up with your trip
Skip if...
- You wanted the full permanent exhibition on German history — it's closed for renovation
- The current temporary exhibition topic doesn't interest you
- You're tight on time and have Museum Island still ahead of you
Ready to Book Your Visit?
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